33 Mardi Gras Drinks Perfect for a Vibrant Party Night

Mardi Gras calls for colors, music, and—most of all—irresistible beverages. From storied New Orleans classics to playful modern concoctions, the following drinks will keep guests clinking glasses long past the last parade float. Mix a few, batch a punch, or run the whole list for the ultimate celebration. Each recipe summary below mentions key flavors and simple serving tips so you can focus on the fun.

1. Hurricane

Invented at Pat O’Brien’s in the 1940s, the Hurricane blends light and dark rum with passion-fruit syrup and fresh citrus for a sweet-tart punch. Shake the ingredients with ice, strain into the signature glass, and top with a cherry-orange duo. The vivid color echoes Mardi Gras beads, making it an instant party starter. Serve with plenty of crushed ice to balance the bold fruitiness.

2. Classic Sazerac

New Orleans lays claim to this rye-based drink dating back to the 1850s. A quick absinthe rinse, a sugar cube, Peychaud’s bitters, and a healthy pour of rye create a bracing, aromatic sipper. Stirred, never shaken, the cocktail is finished with a lemon peel expressed over the top. It’s sophisticated yet delightfully simple once the technique is mastered.

3. Ramos Gin Fizz

This creamy fizz first shook up Crescent City brunch crowds in the 1880s. Gin, citrus, egg white, cream, and orange-flower water require a vigorous shake—traditionally so long bartenders passed the shaker down the line. The payoff is a pillowy head that towers over the glass. Use crushed ice and a slow splash of soda water to achieve the classic cloudlike texture.

4. Vieux Carré

Named after the French Quarter itself, the Vieux Carré mixes rye, cognac, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, and dual bitters. The spirit-forward profile bridges the spicy bite of rye and the roundness of cognac. Stir until ice-cold, then strain over a single cube to keep dilution in check. A brandied cherry adds a luxe touch without extra work.

5. King Cake Martini

This playful drink captures the cinnamon-vanilla notes of the iconic pastry. Vanilla vodka, cinnamon schnapps, and a splash of cream come together in a shaker with ice. Rim the glass with colored sugar to mimic the cake’s glittering glaze. For full effect, perch a tiny plastic baby on the base of the glass—just remind revelers not to swallow it.

6. Mardi Gras Party Punch

Big gatherings call for something shareable, and this rum-based punch rises to the occasion. Pineapple juice, orange juice, grenadine, and gold rum mingle overnight so the flavors meld. Just before serving, add chilled sparkling wine for lively bubbles. Ladle into cups and garnish with multi-colored citrus wheels for instant festivity.

7. Creole Bloody Mary

This bold rendition swaps traditional Worcestershire for spicy Creole seasoning and a splash of Crystal hot sauce. Vodka and tomato juice form the base, while horseradish brings sinus-clearing zip. Rim the glass with Cajun spice for extra kick. A boiled Gulf shrimp or pickled okra spear finishes the savory masterpiece.

8. French 75

Light yet celebratory, the French 75 blends gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, then tops the mix with chilled Champagne. The drink dates to World War I but feels eternally fresh. Its sparkling profile makes it an elegant welcome cocktail. Chill the flute in advance so every sip stays brisk.

9. Cajun Lemonade

Sweet, spicy, and refreshing, this lemonade features vodka, brown sugar, and jalapeño-infused simple syrup. The gentle heat sneaks up without overwhelming the palate. Batch the base early, then add club soda just before serving for lively fizz. It pairs nicely with fried seafood platters straight from the fryer.

10. Bourbon Milk Punch

A traditional New Orleans brunch staple, this punch combines bourbon, milk, vanilla, and simple syrup. Shake with ice until frothy and chilled, then strain into a glass over fresh cubes. A light grate of nutmeg adds warming spice aroma. It’s surprisingly light, making it an easy daytime indulgence.

11. Pimm’s Cup, NOLA Style

The Napoleon House popularized a Southern twist on this English classic by topping Pimm’s with lemonade and 7-Up instead of ginger ale. Plenty of cucumber and citrus keep it extra refreshing. Assemble directly in the glass to preserve the carbonation. It’s a low-alcohol option guests can sip all afternoon.

12. Grapefruit Bramble

A seasonal riff on the gin Bramble swaps lemon for ruby-red grapefruit juice. The tart citrus balances luscious crème de mûre drizzled over the top. Crushed ice keeps the layers visible and ensures rapid chilling. Garnish with a fresh blackberry and tiny wedge of grapefruit for color contrast.

13. Bayou Rum Runner

This tiki favorite gets a Louisiana makeover by spotlighting locally distilled rum. Banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, pineapple, and lime create a lush tropical base. A float of dark rum crowns the drink with molasses richness. It tastes like vacation—and won’t disappear in a sea of spicy crawfish.

14. Purple, Green & Gold Jello Shots

Layered gelatin treats double as edible décor. Grape, lime, and pineapple flavors dyed in Mardi Gras hues each set separately in mini cups. Vodka or white rum mixes in seamlessly, but you can leave a few layers alcohol-free for designated drivers. Stack the finished shots on a chilled platter so they stay firm.

15. Zydeco Zombie

The Zombie is notorious for packing a punch, and this version keeps the legend alive. Three types of rum, passion-fruit puree, cinnamon syrup, and bitters create depth and danger. A lime cup filled with spent overproof rum can be briefly lit for tableside drama. Warn guests to sip slowly; the dance floor will thank you.

16. Bananas Foster Daiquiri

Inspired by the famous Brennan’s dessert, this frozen drink purées ripe bananas, dark rum, brown sugar, and a dash of cinnamon. A quick blend with crushed ice yields a milkshake-like consistency. Finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence. It’s both cocktail and dessert in a single frosty package.

17. Chicory Coffee Old Fashioned

Louisiana’s love affair with chicory coffee meets bourbon in this smoky rendition. Stir chilled chicory concentrate with bourbon, demerara syrup, and two dashes of orange bitters. A single ice sphere chills without over-diluting. The roasted chicory adds earthy backbone that stands up to parade-day sweets.

18. Pineapple Passion Spritz

Light, bubbly, and easy to batch, this spritz combines passion-fruit liqueur, pineapple juice, and dry Prosecco. A short shake softens the juices, then the drink is strained over ice and topped with more bubbles. Pineapple wedges give an aromatic lift. Offer it as a lower-ABV option alongside heftier rum drinks.

19. Blackberry Mojito

Fresh berries turn the classic Cuban refresher into a carnival-ready purple potion. Muddle blackberries and mint with simple syrup, add white rum and lime, then shake briskly. Top with club soda for sparkle. The jewel-tone color matches parade throws nicely.

20. Absinthe Frappe

Dating to the 1870s, this icy treat layers anise-forward absinthe, simple syrup, and soda water in a julep cup. Crushed ice transforms the mix into a lightly sweet slush. A mint sprig adds aroma that complements absinthe’s herbal bite. Serve with a short straw so guests catch the chilled vapor on the first sip.

21. Strawberry Basil Margarita

Pureed strawberries lend natural sweetness and vibrant hue to this tequila favorite. Basil muddled with agave nectar provides a garden-fresh counterpoint. Shake with reposado tequila and lime, then strain over ice for a smooth, fruity finish. A half-salt rim keeps the seasoning balanced.

22. Lillet Laissez-Faire

This low-proof aperitif cocktail mixes Lillet Blanc, elderflower liqueur, and lemon bitters. Stirred and served up, it offers delicate floral notes that cleanse the palate between rich party bites. A small thyme sprig delivers subtle aroma. It’s ideal for guests who prefer something lighter without sacrificing flair.

23. Mango Mezcal Mule

Smoky mezcal replaces vodka in this mule variation, while mango nectar lends tropical sweetness. Shake mezcal, mango, and lime, then pour over fresh ice and top with spicy ginger beer. The combination feels both refreshingly cool and gently warming. Jalapeño slices add a subtle kick that matches Mardi Gras energy.

24. Spiced Praline Hot Chocolate

Cold parade nights call for something cozy. Melt dark chocolate into whole milk, spike with pecan-praline liqueur, and finish with cinnamon and a dash of cayenne. A generous swirl of whipped cream plus crumbled candied pecans adds crunch. Keep a slow cooker of this steaming so guests can refill at will.

25. Garden District Gimlet

This gin gimlet gets a botanical boost from cucumber and rosemary syrup. Shake until frosty, then double-strain to remove pulp. Crisp, herbal notes cut through fried fare like hush puppies or beignets. The petite glass keeps portions elegant—just like the neighborhood that inspired it.

26. Coconut Hurricane Mocktail

Not everyone drinks alcohol, but everyone deserves a festive glass. Coconut water, passion-fruit puree, orange juice, and a squeeze of lime recreate the Hurricane’s tropical vibe without rum. Shake with ice to aerate, then pour over crushed ice for a frosty treat. A colorful straw makes the mocktail parade-ready.

27. Sparkling King Cake Mocktail

Vanilla syrup, cinnamon simple syrup, and lemon juice shaken together echo King Cake spices. Top with non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice for celebratory fizz. A colored-sugar rim links the drink to the iconic pastry visually. It’s sweet, bubbly, and safe for both kids and designated drivers.

28. Sweet Tea Smash (Zero-Proof)

Sweet tea is practically the South’s unofficial beverage, so giving it a party twist is only natural. Muddle ripe peaches and mint in the bottom of a jar, add chilled brewed tea, and shake with crushed ice. A quick strain keeps texture smooth. The result is refreshing enough to rival any cocktail on the menu.

29. Raspberry Ginger Fizz

Fresh raspberries and ginger syrup build layers of fruit and spice. Vodka provides backbone, while club soda lifts the drink with gentle bubbles. Garnish with a piece of crystallized ginger for a sweet-hot nibble. Its jewel tone pops against green and gold table décor.

30. Lavender Lemon French 75 Mocktail

Lavender simple syrup gives floral complexity to a zero-proof version of the classic French 75. Combine the syrup with fresh lemon juice and chilled non-alcoholic sparkling wine. The bouquet is gentle, never perfumy. Serve during daytime events for an elegant, booze-free sparkle.

31. Watermelon Mint Cooler

Pureed watermelon, lime juice, and a splash of white rum (or omit for a mocktail) create a thirst-quenching blend. Double-strain the puree to remove pulp, ensuring a silky texture. Mint leaves clap between hands before garnishing to release oils. It’s an instant hit when parade weather turns unexpectedly warm.

32. Cucumber Lime Spritz

Sliced cucumbers steep in vodka for a crisp infusion that pairs perfectly with lime cordial. Build the drink over ice, top with sparkling water, and stir gently. The result is clean, bright, and palate-cleansing. A pinch of flaky salt on the cucumber garnish heightens flavor without fuss.

33. Sparkling Grape & Gold Punch

Close the party with a color-themed showstopper. Combine purple grape juice, pineapple juice, and ginger ale in a clear dispenser packed with ice. As the layers mingle, they form a shimmering hue that matches team colors perfectly. Keep extra fruit on hand so guests can ladle pieces into their cups.