Summer always sneaks up on us. One minute it’s school bags and packed lunches, and the next it’s activity planning, sunscreen hunts, and “I’m bored!” echoing through the house. That’s when our homemade lemonade really comes into play—cool, fizzy, and the perfect refreshment for sunny, busy days.
Last weekend, completely on their own, the kids decided to set up a little stand on the driveway to sell their old toys. They spent hours painting signs, arranging their display and welcoming their friends to the stand. It was such a fun day—and honestly, I was impressed with how committed they were!
It all went so well that they immediately asked, “Can we do a lemonade and treat stand during the summer holidays?”
Of course I said yes.
It reminded me of our go-to lemonade recipe—simple, fizzy, and so refreshing on a hot day. We’ve made it for birthday parties, playdates, and yes, lemonade stands before. It’s become one of those easy little traditions that feels like summer in a glass.
What I love most about lemonade stands—besides the sticky hands and lemony smiles—is that they give the kids a sense of pride. They work together, they get creative, and they feel so supported when friends and neighbours stop by. It’s one of those little things that turns into a big memory.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Lemonade
It makes memories. Honestly, it’s more than just lemonade—it’s the smiles, sticky hands, and moments shared together.
It’s kid-approved. The perfect balance of sweet and tart makes it a hit with even the pickiest little taste testers.
Super simple to make. No fancy gadgets or hard-to-find ingredients—just fresh lemons, sugar, and water.
A fun kitchen activity. Kids can help squeeze lemons, stir the syrup, and be part of the process from start to finish.
It’s naturally refreshing. Sparkling water gives it a fun fizz, and it’s so much more satisfying than store-bought mixes.
Perfect for stands, parties, or just hot afternoons. Whether you’re hosting a lemonade stand, a backyard playdate, or just need a cool-down drink, this one delivers.
1. After a Busy Day
We love to sip on it after a long day of playing outside. It’s the perfect refreshment when the kids are hot and tired, and we all need a little cool-down.
4. Lemonade Stand Time
It’s definitely our go-to drink when the kids run their lemonade stand. It’s the perfect way to stay cool while they get busy making signs and chatting with neighbours.
Perfect for Picnics
We love drinking this lemonade during picnics in the park or on the beach. It’s the perfect paired with my Perfect Homemade Pizza Dough: A Step-by-Step Guide or Easy Cheese Rolls: The Perfect Lunchbox Snack!. The kids can’t wait to grab a cup after an afternoon of running around and enjoy a refreshing sip between bites.
Homemade Lemonade
Ingredients
- 4 x lemons
- 200 ml approx sparkling water
- Sugar Syrup (Simple Syrup)
- 400 g white sugar 1 ¾ cups
- 200 ml water 3/4 cup
- Lots of Ice
Instructions
- Make sugar syrup:Measure the sugar into a small pot and add the water. Stir and gently heat until the sugar has dissolved.
- The liquid should go from cloudy to clear.
- Take off the heat and leave to cool.
- Pour into jars store in the fridge until needed.
- Prepare lemonade:Squeeze the juice of 4 lemons into a jug, use a sieve or strainer to catch the pips.
- Add the sugar syrup, about 4 tablespoons.
- Taste it- it should be not too sweet or not too sour!
- Pour evenly into 4 glasses, top with ice and sparkling water.
- Storage tips:Store lemonade in fridge for up to 3 days.The sugar syrup can be used in cocktails and mocktails, lemonade, iced coffee and ice teas. Keep in an airtight jar in the fridge for 1 months.
