Black Lights & Alcohol

Black lights, or simply UV lights, are a fascinating yet explainable sensation. The dark purple glow these lights emit exists within the ultraviolet (UV) range of the spectrum, which means it is invisible to the human eye. But now you may be asking why under a black light, white clothes or any other fluorescent colored item gives off a bright glow. Each of these items contains something called phosphors, which is a substance that absorbs energy and re-emits it as visible light. Using another example to describe this sensation, teeth and fingernails contain natural phosphors, and many laundry detergents contain phosphor-based optical brighteners designed to give white clothing clothes a ‘whiter than white’ effect.

Black lights have many practical uses; in particular, detecting incriminating evidence in crime scenes or even counterfeit event tickets and banknotes, as they contain special ink with phosphors that specifically radiate under a black light. But there are much less serious and dare we say, silly ways to experience the fun that could be had with black lights, and that, of course, includes those alcoholic beverages.

You can go the easy route and simply buy glow in the dark ice cubes and cups which glow even brighter when surrounded by black lights, but whoever said easy was more fun? Put on your bartender hat because there are many alcoholic beverages you can make to put on a light show for friends and family, that illuminate under black lights.

Gin and Tonic

A simple but classy gin and tonic, or any drink that contains tonic water for that matter, are one of the most popular beverages to consume under a black light. Tonic water contains quinine, which is a natural substance from the South American cinchona tree (originally used to treat Malaria). When exposed to a black light, tonic water shines a blue glow.

A simple but classy gin and tonic, or any drink that contains tonic water for that matter, are one of the most popular beverages to consume under a black light. Tonic water contains quinine, which is a natural substance from the South American cinchona tree (originally used to treat Malaria). When exposed to a black light, tonic water shines a blue glow.

The White Russian

Another classy alcoholic beverage, the timeless mixture of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream poured over ice, known as the White Russian surprisingly fluoresces under a black light as well. But the reason why it emits a glow is not because of the whiskey or the coffee liquor. Milk or any other dairy product—in this case, creamer—does tend to glow whenever a black light is near. However, this is the case for most white-colored products—like your white T-shirt. However, the more opaquely white something is, the brighter it will glow.

Energy Drink Cocktail

This one is even simpler. Energy drinks containing Vitamin B, whether it is Red Bull, Rock Star, Bang or your friend Kyle’s favorite—Monster, mixed with vodka will produce a tasty cocktail but an even more impressive eye-popping glow. While you should drink responsibly with any alcohol consumption, combining with energy drinks should prompt even closer moderation, as this mix can have deadly, immediate effects on one’s heart.

There is a sterile and secretive essence attached to the phrase and image of “Black Light” when uttered, especially within serious circumstances like forensic work. However, these drinks are proof that black lights can be wielded in creative ways you never thought were possible.