If you thought lemonade was strictly a warm weather beverage, think again. This week, spirits brand Jim Beam hosted an exclusive party in New York City, and officially made the case for enjoying the summertime favourite year-round. The January bash, which took place on a panoramic rooftop overlooking the Hudson River, decked out Midtown’s Glasshouse venue with larger-than-life lemons and immersive photo stations that brought the Jim Beam & Lemonade cocktail to life. 

The night’s theme tied into Jim Beam’s Refresh Your Season campaign, which encourages fans to enjoy the season regardless of their team’s outcome; or, in other words, turn lemons into lemonade. As the face of the campaign, actor and comedian Kenan Thompson also made an appearance. “As a football fan, there’ve been plenty of seasons that didn’t go my way, so the message hit home immediately,” said Thompson. “I also genuinely love watching football, and sometimes I realise I enjoy it even more when my blood pressure isn’t tied to the final score.” The SNL star came to the party decked out in none other than a limited-edition Jim Beam jersey, which was designed in partnership with Dazed. 

Between the endless lemons, cocktails, and mingling, it was a night that, just for a moment, made partygoers forget it was the dead of winter. Here’s everything that went down.

THE DRINK OPTIONS WERE PLENTIFUL

The star of the night was the Beam & Lemonade, which was doled out in glass mason jars. For those looking for a taste of something else, cocktails that combined the classic bourbon with ginger ale, cola and lemon-lime soda were also offered.

THOMPSON SHOWED OUT 

Aside from acting, Thompson proved that hosting is one of his many talents. The star greeted fans, gave a speech and kicked back with attendees.

THE DJ KEPT THE VIBES RIGHT

Throughout the night, DJ Jay Jung played banger after banger, giving partygoers plenty to celebrate. His set list was a “refresh” of its own, including plenty of early 2000s throwbacks.

THE NIGHT ENDED WITH A BANG

To close out the night, attendees headed outside for a showstopping drone show. Hordes of fans huddled together for warmth and watched as glittering football-themed formations overtook the sky. 

Drink Smart®. Jim Beam® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 40% Alc./Vol. ©2026 James B. Beam Distilling Co., Clermont, KY

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