Sip Your Way Through Mardi Gras 2025 with These New Orleans Classics
By Mallory Ambrose | February 26, 2025
Mardi Gras 2025 is set to bring the vibrant energy, rich traditions, and legendary revelry that make it one of the most exciting celebrations in the world. While many know it for the parades, beads, and costumes, the festival has deep historical roots—and a spirited cocktail culture that is just as lively.
A Brief History of Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras, French for “Fat Tuesday,” dates back to medieval Europe, but it found its true home in Louisiana when French explorers brought the tradition to New Orleans in the early 18th century. The celebration marks the last day before Lent, a period of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a season of parades, masquerade balls, and community gatherings, blending French, Spanish, and Creole influences into the unique cultural tapestry of New Orleans.
Classic Mardi Gras Cocktails
A proper Mardi Gras experience isn’t complete without its signature cocktails. Whether you’re toasting at a French Quarter bar or celebrating in your hometown, these classics bring the flavors of New Orleans to life.
- The Hurricane
One of the most famous cocktails associated with Mardi Gras, the Hurricane was created at Pat O’Brien’s bar during World War II when whiskey was scarce, and rum was plentiful. This sweet and strong drink combines light and dark rum, passion fruit juice, orange juice, lime, grenadine, and simple syrup, served in a signature curved glass.
Where to Try It: Royal Sonesta New Orleans – Hosting its 55th annual signature ‘The Greasing of the Poles’ at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 28, considered by many to be the French Quarter’s official kickoff to Mardi Gras weekend, this hotel places you right in the heart of the Mardi Gras action. Grab a Hurricane and other classic New Orleans sips from The Jazz Playhouse while enjoying live music.
- Sazerac
Considered one of America’s first cocktails, the Sazerac is a New Orleans staple with a refined yet powerful punch. Made with rye whiskey (or sometimes Cognac), a sugar cube, Peychaud’s bitters, and an absinthe rinse, it’s an elegant nod to the city’s cocktail heritage.
Where to Try It: The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel – Home to the Sazerac Bar, this legendary hotel is where you can experience an expertly crafted Sazerac in a setting that exudes old-school glamour.
- Ramos Gin Fizz
A frothy, smooth delight, the Ramos Gin Fizz was created by Henry C. Ramos in 1888. It blends gin, heavy cream, egg white, lemon juice, lime juice, simple syrup, orange flower water, and club soda into a silky, cloud-like cocktail that requires a vigorous shake.
Where to Try It: The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel – If you are seeking an authentic Ramos Gin Fizz this is a must-visit spot, as they have been serving the drink since the hotel acquired the rights to the recipe from Henry Ramos himself.
Another top choice is Ace Hotel New Orleans – The Lobby Bar and Alto, the rooftop bar, both offer creative spins on New Orleans classics, including a well-crafted Ramos Gin Fizz.
- Vieux Carré
Named after the French Quarter (Vieux Carré means “Old Square”), this sophisticated cocktail is a mix of rye whiskey, Cognac, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, and both Angostura and Peychaud’s bitters. It’s a well-balanced, spirit-forward drink that reflects the melting pot of cultures that define New Orleans.
Where to Try It: The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans – The Davenport Lounge, located inside the Ritz-Carlton, is known for its elegant ambiance and jazz performances. Their Vieux Carré is expertly crafted and perfect for a refined cocktail experience.
Final Toast to Mardi Gras 2025
Whether you’re parading down Bourbon Street, enjoying live music in the Marigny, or toasting with a Sazerac in hand, Mardi Gras 2025 is an invitation to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, flavors, and festive spirit. No matter where you choose to celebrate, raise a glass to the timeless traditions of New Orleans. Laissez les bons temps rouler!
