Hey party people! 🎭💜💚💛

It’s that time of year again—the streets are filled with beads, music, and the colorful chaos of Mardi Gras! Whether you're a Mardi Gras pro or it's your first time celebrating, there's no better way to kick off the festivities than by getting ready in style. Mardi Gras this week, but many festivities begin the weekend before, so we are here to help fill your celebrations with as much pizzazz as humanly possible!

Grab your glitter, your best dancing shoes, and let’s get this Mardi Gras madness started! 🎉✨

1: Start Your Mardi Gras Morning Off Right – MARDI GRAS COCKTAILS

Laissez les bon temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!) 🎉💜💚💛

Mardi Gras isn’t just about the parades, the beads, and the music—it's also about celebrating with good friends, delicious food, and, of course, fabulous cocktails! Whether you're starting your day early to catch the first float or just setting the tone for a day full of fun, there's no better way to kick off your Mardi Gras festivities than with a few themed drinks.

Whether you are down for a traditional Mardi Gras Hurricane cocktail, a fresh and funky new Mardi Gras drink, or a classic Mimosa, there's no better way to start off any big celebration event than a bit of day drinking! Below are just some of our favorite Mardi Gras cocktails that are worth setting your alarm for an hour earlier to make before your big day!

1. Purple Parade Punch

Start your Mardi Gras morning with this sweet, fruity punch, perfect for a parade day brunch! Think of it as your colorful Mardi Gras signature drink—full of vibrant purple, orange, and green layers. It's easy to make, and it tastes just as festive as it looks.

Ingredients:

• Grape juice
• Pineapple juice
• Orange juice
• Vodka (or rum if you prefer)
• Splash of club soda

Instructions:
In a shaker, combine all your juices and your choice of alcohol. Pour over ice, top with a splash of club soda, and garnish with an orange slice or maraschino cherry. Voilà! You're ready to parade!

2. King Cake Martini

You can't celebrate Mardi Gras without a nod to the iconic King Cake. This martini version of the beloved dessert will bring all the fun, with its sweet, creamy flavor and a twist of cinnamon spice.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. cinnamon schnapps
• 1 oz. vanilla vodka
• 1 oz. white chocolate liqueur
• Splash of cream
• Purple, green, and gold sugar (for garnish)

Instructions:
Shake the schnapps, vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and cream with ice until chilled. Strain into a martini glass and rim with purple, green, and gold sugar for that Mardi Gras flair!

3. Cajun Sunrise

Spicy, sweet, and oh-so-refreshing, the Cajun Sunrise is a perfect drink to sip while you gear up for a day of parades and revelry. This drink brings the perfect balance of flavors with a kick of heat from the jalapeño.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. tequila
• 4 oz. orange juice
• 1 oz. grenadine
• Fresh jalapeño slices
• Salt for rimming (optional)

Instructions:
Muddle a few jalapeño slices in the bottom of your glass, then fill with ice. Add tequila, orange juice, and grenadine. Stir gently, and garnish with an extra jalapeño slice for that extra Cajun kick!

2: Dress the Part – Mardi Gras Style!

How to Dress for a Mardi Gras Parade: A Guide to Fun, Fashion, and Festivities

Mardi Gras, the legendary celebration of vibrant costumes, lively parades, and plenty of revelry, is just around the corner! Whether you’re heading to New Orleans, or any other city embracing the spirit of Mardi Gras, dressing for the parade is an exciting part of the experience. It's all about expressing creativity, embracing bold colors, and having fun with your outfit. Here’s how to get your Mardi Gras parade attire just right!

1. Embrace the Mardi Gras Colors

The iconic colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green, and gold. Each color has its own significance:

• Purple symbolizes justice
• Green represents faith
• Gold stands for power

Incorporating these colors into your outfit is a great way to stay true to tradition. Whether it’s through beads, accessories, or your main attire, don’t shy away from a bold, colorful look!

2. Festive Accessories Are a Must

Mardi Gras parades are all about catching beads and throwing them, so make sure to accessorize with plenty of beads, necklaces, and hats. You can find all sorts of glittering and themed accessories—from feathered boas to fun masks to crowns. Beads are the ultimate symbol of the celebration, so don’t hold back on the sparkle. A statement mask or a flashy headband can elevate your outfit and make you part of the parade’s carnival-like energy.

3. Comfort is Key (But So is Style!)

While it's tempting to go all-out with extravagant costumes, remember you’ll be walking, standing, and celebrating for several hours. Make sure your outfit is comfortable enough to allow you to enjoy the parade without any discomfort. Consider wearing comfortable shoes (but still stylish, of course!), breathable fabrics, and layers in case the weather shifts. Mardi Gras is a long celebration, so choose clothing that lets you move freely.

4. Get Creative with Costumes

Mardi Gras is all about creativity, so go wild with your costume choices! You can dress up as something fun and whimsical—like a jester, a super-hero, a colorful bird, or even a Mardi Gras float. Don’t be afraid to add quirky details like glittery face paint, feathered headpieces, or even themed props like a scepter or a trumpet. The more unique and colorful, the better!

If you want to stick with a classic look, you can go for a traditional Mardi Gras jester costume, which combines all the festive colors, a fun mask, and a playful design. But if you're feeling extra daring, try something new—Mardi Gras is the perfect opportunity to go all out!

5. Dress in Layers

The weather can be unpredictable during Mardi Gras, so layering your outfit is essential. You want to be ready for chilly morning parades or warmer afternoon festivities. Throw on a light jacket or a cute cardigan that can easily be removed if it gets too warm. A funky patterned scarf or a cute shawl can also add to your Mardi Gras look while providing some extra warmth.

6. Opt for Face Paint or Temporary Tattoos

If you’re looking to add a little extra flair to your costume, consider face paint or temporary tattoos that reflect the festive vibe. Think bold purple, gold, and green swirls, masks, or Mardi Gras symbols like fleur-de-lis. You can even add rhinestones or glitter to amp up your look. Temporary tattoos can add a cool touch without the commitment.

7. Have Fun with Footwear

Mardi Gras parades often mean walking around for hours, so comfortable shoes are a must. But that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style! There are plenty of cute yet comfy options, like colorful sneakers, sparkly sandals, or chunky boots. If you’re feeling particularly daring, you could even find a fun pair of theme-inspired shoes, like ones with feathers or beads!

8. Be Ready to Collect and Share

A big part of the Mardi Gras parade experience is catching beads, coins, and other trinkets tossed by float riders. Carry a small bag or pouch to store all the treasures you collect. Whether it’s a small crossbody or a fun drawstring bag, make sure it's something easy to carry and easy to access.

9. Respect the Tradition, but Let Your Personality Shine

While dressing for Mardi Gras, it's important to respect the celebration’s history and traditions, but don’t forget to let your personality shine through! Whether you’re a bold, over-the-top dresser, or someone who likes to keep it simple yet stylish, Mardi Gras is your chance to express yourself in the most creative way possible. From quirky accessories to fun costumes, your look should reflect your festive spirit.

3: Grab a Traditional Snack - Beignets a MUST!

Traditional Mardi Gras Foods to Enjoy During the Festivities

Mardi Gras is a time for celebration, and one of the best parts of this festive season is the delicious food! From savory dishes to sweet treats, the traditional Mardi Gras menu is a reflection of the rich culture and history of New Orleans, and it’s a must-have for any Mardi Gras celebration. Whether you're in the heart of the festivities or just enjoying them from home, here’s a rundown of the most iconic dishes you should try during Mardi Gras.

1. King Cake: The Sweet Symbol of Mardi Gras

You can't talk about Mardi Gras food without mentioning the King Cake. This vibrant, colorful cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a Mardi Gras tradition. Typically braided or circular in shape, it’s covered in icing and topped with colored sugar in purple, green, and gold—the iconic Mardi Gras colors. Hidden inside the cake is a small plastic baby (or sometimes a charm), and the person who finds it is said to have good luck for the year or is tasked with hosting next year’s King Cake party. It’s sweet, cinnamon-filled, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

2. Gumbo: A Hearty, Flavorful Stew

Gumbo is a hearty stew that embodies the soul of New Orleans cuisine. This dish is a staple during Mardi Gras festivities, often made with a flavorful base of roux (a mix of flour and oil), and loaded with ingredients like shrimp, sausage, chicken, or even oysters. It's typically served over rice and seasoned to perfection with bold spices like thyme, bay leaves, and cayenne pepper. Whether you prefer a seafood-based gumbo or a hearty, meat-filled one, this dish is a comforting, flavorful way to celebrate.

3. Po' Boy Sandwiches: A New Orleans Classic

The Po’ Boy is a sandwich that’s as iconic as it is delicious. Traditionally served on a crusty French roll, these sandwiches are filled with fried shrimp, oysters, or even roast beef, and dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and a tangy remoulade sauce. You’ll find Po’ Boys on nearly every corner of New Orleans during Mardi Gras, and they’re perfect for a quick bite while walking along the parade route.

4. Beignets: Sweet, Powdered Perfection

You can’t celebrate Mardi Gras without indulging in beignets. These deep-fried dough squares are dusted with powdered sugar, creating a sweet, decadent treat that’s as satisfying as it is messy. Served hot, they’re often enjoyed with a café au lait or coffee, making for a delightful pick-me-up during the festivities. No trip to New Orleans is complete without trying these delicious pastries at the famous Café du Monde.

5. Hurricanes: A Signature Cocktail

No Mardi Gras celebration is complete without a cocktail in hand, and the Hurricane is the drink of choice. This rum-based cocktail is typically made with light and dark rum, passion fruit juice, orange juice, and grenadine. It’s a sweet and tangy drink that packs a punch, and it’s often served in a large, colorful glass. Make sure to sip it slowly, as it’s a potent beverage!

4: Pace yourself - But enjoy the day!

As you dive into the excitement of Mardi Gras, with its parades, music, and endless festivities, remember that it’s just as much about the moments you share with others as it is about the vibrant celebration itself. While it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of beads and excitement, take time to slow down and truly enjoy the company of those around you. Whether you're catching up with old friends, meeting new people, or simply soaking in the rich culture of New Orleans, Mardi Gras offers a unique opportunity to connect with others and experience the traditions that make this festival so special. So, savor the moments, embrace the joy, and let yourself be fully present in the magic of the season. After all, Mardi Gras is not just about the party; it’s about the memories you create along the way.