Refreshing cocktails to help beat the heat

Even though it may not officially be summer, the heat is definitely making it feel like we're in the middle of it already. Besides grilling, what's the other thing synonymous with the season? Ice cold, refreshing drinks — namely, those with alcohol (as it helps us forget how hot it really is).

Check out these fabulous cocktails I've found on some great looking food and drink sites for inspiration for your next summer fête.

Bug Juice (Boulder Locavore) - Though the name may be offputting, this lemonade and vodka based cocktail is a leaded version of the kiddie drink.

">Easy Lemonade Cocktails (Every Nothing Wonderful) - These drink ideas start with one of the hallmark beverages of summer and add fun flavor twists to create a multitude of libation possibilities.

Four Botanical Twists on Gin and Tonic (The Kitchn) - A few twists on the classic gin and tonic drink utilizing ingredients you may already have in your kitchen cabinet or herb garden.

Lemon Lavender Cocktail (Savvy Housekeeping) - A Provence-inspired combination of Champagne, gin, lemon and lavender that sounds divinely refreshing.

Rhubarb Pie Cocktail (Boulder Locavore) - This simple recipe uses fresh rhubarb (minus the leaves), sugar and vodka to create a summer dessert-inspired drink.

Watermelon Frosty (Healthy, Happy Life) - This summer fruit is transformed into a frosty treat that can be served either without alcohol or turned into a leaded libation with the addition of tequila or vodka.

White Peach and Cinnamon Sangria (CL Food & Drink) - An easy peasy, peachy sangria recipe that's perfect for an outdoor party.