Guest Author - Melanie Hachey

It's Spring! Do you know what that means? Barbecue!

Spring and Summer in Canada is Barbecue season. Canadians can and will barbecue all year long, in the snow, in the rain, or, really, in any weather. But the season really kicks off in the Spring and Summer. It is a rare summer evening that you can't step outside and smell the smokiness of meat grilling on a barbecue somewhere nearby. If you are hosting your first barbecue party of the season and you're looking for a tasty drink to serve, try this punch. Its tangy freshness is a perfect accompaniment to a Spring barbecue party. And it can be enjoyed all year long; its combination of fruity flavours and fizziness is a refreshing addition to any gathering.

Combine the following frozen juices in a punch bowl, do not add water:
1 can of Bacardi Strawberry Daiquiri Mix
1 can of 5 Alive Tropical Citrus (the one in the purple can)
1 can of Pink Lemonade
1 can of McCains Orange Punch (make sure it's the punch, not the juice)

And:
2/3 of a 2L bottle of 7 Up, Sprite or Ginger Ale
1/4 of a 1L bottle President's Choice Pink Grapefruit Drink

Stir well and refrigerate until needed. This can be made a bit in advance of your party, but not too early or it will lose its fizziness.

Immediately before serving, add a 375ml bottle of champagne.

If you're making the punch for children or anyone who doesn't drink alcohol, you can replace the champagne with more 7up and pink grapefruit drink.

To decorate, place a piece of seasonal fruit in each section of an ice-cube tray, fill with water and freeze. Add to the punch right after adding the champagne. It will look pretty and keep the punch cold, and your guests can take one of the cubes in their glass if they wish. If you're hosting a fancier occasion, like a wedding reception, you can also buy a round, doughnut shaped ice tray, called an "ice ring". It makes a good-sized ring of ice. Place seasonal fruit in it, add water and freeze. It makes a very pretty decoration for your punch.

Enjoy!