9 Mardi Gras Cocktails That Begin and End the Celebration Just Right

It's time to break out all the essential cocktails you'll need to get the Mardi Gras party started. While many flock to New Orleans each year to celebrate Fat Tuesday in full force, don't let that stop you from having your own party at home. From rum to bourbon, expand your palette, and serve up these nine New Orleans bevvys (aka cocktails) to join in on this Southern festivity.

Old Fashioned
POPSUGAR Photography | Anna Monette Roberts

Old Fashioned

Many will request an old fashioned garnished with cherries and an orange wedge, but those who take it the truly old-fashioned way keep it simple with bourbon, bitters, sugar, and an orange or lemon twist.

Ramos Gin Fizz
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

Ramos Gin Fizz

Invented by a New Orleans barkeep in the 1800s, this frothy, refreshing classic is the perfect day drink.

Hurricane
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Hurricane

If rum is your choice mixer, you'll go wild for a hurricane, a punchy pineapple, rum, and passion-fruit drink made famous by Bourbon Street bar Pat O'Brien's.

Honeyed French 75
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

Honeyed French 75

This honeyed twist on the French 75 cocktail is a go-to choice for Champagne fans. Your classy taste buds will enjoy it undoubtedly.

Mint Julep
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Mint Julep

A classic mint julep makes for easy daytime drinking thanks to its cool, refreshing flavor.

Sazerac
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Sazerac

The Sazerac is a quintessential New Orleans cocktail made with rye whiskey, bitters, absinthe, and a lemon peel. If you crave something bold and straight to the point, this is the drink for you.

Bourbon Milk Punch
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Bourbon Milk Punch

This slushy milk punch features the delicious flavors of bourbon, nutmeg, and vanilla.

Bourbon King Cake Bevvy
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Bourbon King Cake Bevvy

Topped off with purple, green, and yellow sprinkles, a bourbon milkshake features a fusion of flavors reminiscent of Mardi Gras king cakes. Don't forget to add a small plastic baby for garnish.

Bloody Mary
POPSUGAR Photography | Camilla Salem

Bloody Mary

After a night on the town, the fastest road to recovery is a spicy Bloody Mary. Remember to add plenty of horseradish, lemon, and olives to make it count.