Mardi Gras isn’t just a day—it’s a state of mind. Born and perfected in New Orleans, this iconic celebration is all about indulgence before Lent: parades, brass bands, king cakes, beads… and, of course, cocktails worth hoisting a glass for.

Whether you’re hosting a full-blown Mardi Gras bash or bringing the spirit of the Big Easy to your living room, these five vodka cocktails channel the traditions, colors, and flavors of the season—bold, celebratory, and just a little bit extra.

Let the good times roll. (Laissez les bons temps rouler!)

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1. The Vodka Hurricane 🌪️

A Mardi Gras classic, reimagined.

Inspired by the legendary Hurricane, this vodka-forward version keeps the tropical flair while feeling lighter and more modern.

Recipe

• 2 oz Weber Ranch Vodka
• 1 oz passion fruit juice
• 1 oz fresh orange juice
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• ½ oz simple syrup

Method:
Shake all ingredients with ice. Strain into a tall glass over fresh ice.

Garnish: Orange slice + cherry

Hosting tip: Batch this ahead of time and serve from a punch bowl for instant party vibes.

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2. French Quarter Mule 🥭

Southern spice meets New Orleans swagger.

This riff on a Moscow Mule brings in Creole heat and citrus brightness.

Recipe

• 2 oz Weber Ranch Vodka
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• Ginger beer (to top)
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters

Method:
Build in a copper mug or highball over ice. Stir gently.

Optional kick: Add a jalapeño slice or ¼ oz ginger syrup.

Garnish: Lime wheel or candied ginger

Why it works: Effortless to batch, endlessly drinkable, and perfect for dancing between parade routes (or playlists).

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3. Purple, Green & Gold Martini 💜💚💛

A cocktail that looks like Mardi Gras.

Recipe

• 2 oz Weber Ranch Vodka
• ¾ oz grape liqueur
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice

Method:
Shake with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass.

Garnish: Lemon twist or gold sugar rim

Fun fact: Purple, green, and gold represent justice, faith, and power—a toast-worthy trio.

Why it works: Elegant, photo-worthy, and a guaranteed party conversation starter.

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4. King Cake Espresso Martini 👑

Dessert, tradition, and cocktail—combined.

King Cake is the centerpiece of Mardi Gras season, flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, and celebration. This cocktail nods to those warm bakery notes with a bold espresso backbone.

Recipe

• 2 oz Weber Ranch Vodka
• 1 oz fresh espresso (or cold brew concentrate)
• ¾ oz coffee liqueur
• ¼ oz vanilla or cinnamon syrup

Method:
Shake hard with ice. Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.

Garnish: Cinnamon dust, vanilla bean, or king cake crumb

Party move: Serve these later in the night to keep the celebration going.

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5. Bayou Berry Spritz 🍓

Light, bright, and made for day drinking.

Not every Mardi Gras cocktail needs to be heavy. This refreshing spritz is ideal for daytime parades or backyard gatherings.

Recipe

• 1½ oz Weber Ranch Vodka
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• Handful of mixed berries (muddled)
• Soda water (to top)

Method:
Muddle berries in a glass, add remaining ingredients (except soda), fill with ice, top with soda, and stir gently.

Garnish: Fresh berries + mint

Why it works: Crisp, colorful, and easy to sip all afternoon.

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Mardi Gras Fun Facts to Share at Your Party 🎺✨

• Mardi Gras means “Fat Tuesday” in French—a final feast before Lent begins.
• New Orleans has over 70 official parades during Mardi Gras season.
• The iconic throws (beads, cups, toys) date back to the late 1800s.
• King Cakes traditionally hide a small baby inside—whoever finds it hosts the next party.

Host Like You’re in New Orleans

Set the scene with jazz or brass band music, lean into bold colors, and don’t be afraid to go over the top—that’s the whole point. Mardi Gras is about joy, indulgence, and celebrating together.

So shake, stir, and raise a glass—because for one night, at least, everyone deserves to party like they’re in New Orleans.

Cheers & Happy Mardi Gras! 🥂🎭

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Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Browse all Weber Ranch Cocktail Recipes.

‍Ever wish you had a bartender in your back pocket?

Text us #SaddleUp to 1-940-400-1902 to meet Tex, your Weber Ranch AI Mixologist. Tex recommends cocktails, works with the ingredients you have on hand, and adapts just like your favorite bartender. From snapping a photo of your fridge to planning a party menu or naming a custom cocktail, Tex is on call 24/7 with bartender-level advice. Just ask Tex!