Unique Game Day Drinks of NFL Fans Across the Country

The return of the NFL season each September ignites a wave of excitement as fans rally with friends and drinks in hand to celebrate fresh possibilities. This annual gathering is more than just a sports ritual; it’s a chance to connect through iconic beverages that reflect the essence of the teams and regions they support. While beer remains the perennial favorite among football enthusiasts, certain teams have established remarkable drink traditions that go beyond the standard fare.

These drinks don’t just quench thirst; they serve as liquid embodiments of civic pride, often deeply intertwined with local culture. Surprisingly, many of these team-specific beverages aren't concocted in the glitzy confines of bars but rather gain their status through grassroots support and tradition. While franchises might offer official cocktails in collaboration with spirit brands, the most beloved drinks stem from authentic local practices that resonate in dive bars and backyards alike.

Baltimore Ravens: Orange Crush

For Ravens fans, the Orange Crush is a beloved cocktail that pays homage to the region. Unlike the Denver Broncos’ historical defense, this fruit-forward drink requires some effort to prepare—namely, juicing fresh oranges and mixing them with vodka, triple sec, and lemon-lime soda. The popularity of this drink is so pronounced that Maryland officially designated it as the state cocktail in 2025, showcasing the way local pride can morph into statewide recognition.

Chicago Bears: Chicago Handshake

In Chicago, the term "handshake" elicits a particular ritual among Bears fans that combines a shot of Malört, a notoriously bitter liqueur, with a can of Old Style Beer. This peculiar pairing, often viewed as a rite of passage for locals and an oddity for outsiders, captures the spirit of the city. Malört may evoke memories of first heartbreaks with its harsh flavor, but pairing it with Old Style elevates this experience to an almost sacred tradition, uniting fans in their collective appreciation—even if Old Style is technically from Wisconsin.

Dallas Cowboys: Frozen Margarita

For Dallas Cowboys supporters, the frozen margarita isn't just a drink—it's a cultural treasure. Invented in the area in 1971, this icy concoction has become synonymous with Texas pride. The team capitalizes on this heritage by offering the Cowboyrita, a gigantic version served at AT&T Stadium. While the official nature of this drink adds a certain flair, it’s equally popular among fans watching the game from home, making it an integral part of the Cowboys’ game day atmosphere.

Green Bay Packers: Wisconsin Old Fashioned

Packer fans, while embracing their share of beer, have a more refined choice for game days: the Wisconsin Old Fashioned. Rather than the usual bourbon base that most people expect, this version employs brandy as its primary spirit, showcasing a sweeter profile. The locals' fierce loyalty to this drink means that any request for an Old Fashioned around game time likely results in getting this Wisconsin classic, further solidifying its place in the state's drinking culture.

Kansas City Chiefs: Horsefeather and Kansas City Ice Water

Chiefs fans often indulge in two local favorites, the Horsefeather and Kansas City Ice Water. The Horsefeather, a variation of the Moscow Mule featuring rye whiskey, stands out with its spicy kick. On the other hand, the Kansas City Ice Water pairs gin and vodka, creating a refreshing drink perfect for the season’s warmer months. The two drinks provide fans with versatile options that echo the excitement of their successful team—even if their 2025 performance wasn’t the best.

Minnesota Vikings: Grape Ape

Vikings fans have a sweet, fruity option with the Grape Ape, a shot that originated at The Loon Cafe in Minneapolis. With its origins rooted in the flavored vodka trend of the '90s, the drink combines vodka, grape soda, and a splash of Sprite. This playful yet iconic drink captures the fun-loving spirit of Vikings fans, serving as a fitting tribute to their team’s colors and culture.

Philadelphia Eagles: Fish House Punch

You can’t discuss Philadelphia sports fandom without mentioning the wild reputation of Eagles supporters, and their drink of choice matches that intensity. Fish House Punch, a potent concoction that dates back to colonial times, packs quite a punch with its mix of rum, Cognac, and fruity brandy. Not only is it historically significant, but it's also deceptively easy to consume and can lead to quite a spirited game day atmosphere—just ask George Washington.

These team-specific beverages aren’t merely drinks; they embody the spirit and culture of their respective cities, creating bonds that enhance the game day experience for fans across the nation.