With festival season kicking off this weekend, summer feels closer than ever. Pool parties, barbecues, picnics, and long days… I can feel it coming! (okay, so springtime in San Diego is practically summer weather anyways, which means bring on the outdoor festivities!) Now for some honesty.. I completely thought April 14th was National Rum Day — I may or may not have seen it listed somewhere incorrectly —  and I was super stoked to come up with a rum inspired cocktail! Instead, I found out the holiday isn’t until August (duh), but I’m not complaining because this gave me an excuse to bring some summer flavors to spring. Lesson of the week: double check online facts before telling everyone it’s a national holiday.

In better news, this tropical guava rum punch tastes like liquid Hawaiian sunshine. Guava, pineapple, coconut.. mmm what’s not to love. Kind of like a tropical unicorn in a glass. That’s a thing, right? I’m also a big fan of using craft spirits in my cocktails, and this local rum from Malahat Spirits Co. is perfect for this punch.

Also, how cute are these stir sticks from The Roc Shop?!  Nic’s line of laser-cut party ware has always been my favorite, since she has a ton of fun, cheeky designs that can be made in virtually any pretty color you want! I thought these peachy geometric shapes were perfect for spring + summer cocktails. Side note — The Roc Shop just launched a brand new line of rad feminist inspired goodies TODAY, so hurry over to her Etsy shop and check it out!

Tropical Guava Rum Punch (for 2)

4 oz. Guava nectar

1 oz. Cream of coconut

3 oz. Pineapple juice

Juice from 1 lime

3oz. White rum

Place guava nectar, cream of coconut, pineapple juice, lime juice, and rum into a shaker with ice. Shake well to combine, and strain into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with stir stick and enjoy!

Note: If you like your drinks with a bit of bubbly (like me!), you can top this off with some club soda.