You have to love a celebration that can combine beads, boobs and beverages, and still stay classy. OK, while Mardi Gras may not be the textbook example of class, it certainly is a world-renowned party.

Many revellers wandering the streets of New Orleans during the festivities will be enjoying a Hurricane – the city’s hallmark cocktail.   

Invented in the 1940s by French Quarter bar owner Pat O’Brien, it’s a mix of rum and fruit juices served in a glass resembling a hurricane lamp.

The recipe is simple to make:

• 1 oz white rum
• 1 oz dark rum
• 2 oz passion fruit juice
• 1 oz orange juice
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp simple syrup
• 1 tbsp grenadine
• 1 orange slice & cherry

Shake all the ingredients together with ice and strain into an ice-filled glass. Garnish with the cherry and orange slice.

My alternative version adds half an ounce of Bacardi 151° Overproof Amber Rum ($34.99 – $44.95) to the mix. It kicks the drink into overdrive.

Prices reflect the range across Canada. Some products may not be available in all provinces.