Mardi Gras is quickly approaching, which means it’s time to gather with your crew and celebrate! Also known as Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras celebrates the practice of eating rich foods and indulging in tasty beverages before the fasting of the Lenten season. So in the name of all things purple, green, and yellow, get ready for the celebrations to begin with these five Mardi Gras-inspired cocktails.

Blueberry Basil Moscow Mule

This tasty drink not only shines with all of its vibrant colors, but is so refreshing and light, you won’t feel too bad about your second pour. Made with ginger beer, vodka, and lime juice as the base, then finished off with some blueberries, basil, and maple syrup for garnish, this will be a go-to long after Mardi Gras is over.

Hurricane

The Hurricane is the quintessential Mardi Gras cocktail. Invented in the French Quarter in the 1940s, this well-known New Orleans drink is a mash-up of many elements. Start with a generous amount of rum and add passion fruit juice, orange juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and grenadine, and shake it up to create a party in your mouth. Just as its name implies, this high-octane fruit bomb is best enjoyed out of a hurricane glass.

Red Snapper

Into a little bit of sweet, but also sour? The Red Snapper is a cocktail loved by many in the French Quarter. Served in a highball glass over ice, with a sprig of mint to garnish, it’s a mix of of whiskey, amaretto, and cranberry juice that makes for an out of this world cocktail experience.

Ramos Gin Fizz

A classic New Orleans cocktail, the Ramos Gin Fizz was invented at the New Orleans bar Imperial Cabinet Saloon in the late 1800s. The Gin Fizz variation includes gin, half-and-half, lime juice, lemon juice, orange blossom water, and egg whites. After shaking in a cocktail shaker, enjoy this creamy cocktail in honor of Mardi Gras.

Mardis Gras Smoothie

It’s festive, it’s boozy, and it’s a great way to get in your fruits and veggies! Try out this colorful Mardis Gras smoothie recipe, made with frozen pineapple, banana, kiwi, spinach, blueberries, raspberries, and vodka. You’ll make three layers of goodness and simply layer each flavor into the cup. It’s pretty, and delicious!

Toast your crew with these five cocktail recipes you need to try this Mardi Gras. For more fun recipes and holidays to celebrate, check out our blog.