16 Creative Trips to Celebrate Your 30th Birthday

What is traditional food for Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras recipes are often rooted in Creole traditions and influences, so popular food includes jambalaya, red beans and rice, beignets, and king cake.

What is one food item that is unique to Mardi Gras in New Orleans?

King cakes are one of the most iconic foods for Mardi Gras. The cinnamon-flavored dessert is often colored with green, yellow, and purple in honor of the holiday, but perhaps the most recognizable aspect of making this Mardi Gras recipe is baking a figurine into the cake. Whoever has the slice with the figurine wins a prize!

Press crescent roll dough into a cupcake mold, fill it with cinnamon, then bake it. Then glaze each one and spray with the iconic Mardi Gras colors. (via Brit + Co)

Carbs have never looked so good! Inspired by the rainbow donuts from Brooklyn’s Bagel Store (you *had* to have seen the viral vid), this tie-dyed loaf ain’t your average fairy bread. Schmear with the traditional toppings on Fat Tuesday and use the leftovers to make croutons for lunch the next few days. (via Brit + Co)

The signature colors of Mardi Gras are gold, green and purple. This salsa may not have Louisiana-style flavors, but it’s going to look very festive in middle of your spread. (via Little Broken)

There’s nothing more southern than crispy fried chicken. But the real winner here is that sweet and spicy hot sauce that takes this dish above and beyond. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Walk into any restaurant in New Orleans and you’ll find some variation of grits and collards. This flavorful at-home version brings all the authenticity and then some. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Dips are a party essential, especially for Fat Tuesday. Rep some of the common southern flavors with this creamy and spicy crab dip that comes together in just minutes. (via Pip and Ebby)

These oysters are grilled to perfection and topped with cheese and butter. Even the oyster naysayers will be intrigued by these flavorful mollusks. (via Closet Cooking)

Beware: This Bloody Mary has major heat. Not only does it have Louisiana Cajun spice, but it’s also full of horseradish and lots of spicy peppers that will know your socks off. (via She Knows)

You can’t think of New Orleans without dreaming of warm sugary beignets. Making your own is a must for any Mardi Gras party, plus they’re great hangover food — just sayin’. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)

The hurricane may be the unofficial cocktail of Mardi Gras, but it’s going to be the official cocktail of your party. Make a huge batch in a punch bowl and garnish with orange slices and maraschino cherries. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)

Typically served during Mardi Gras brunch, brandy milk punch is similar to its thicker cousin eggnog. If you think you need a little bit of “hair of the dog” post Mardi Gras, this should be your go-to. (via Boulder Locavore)

Your party guests are going to go wild for these dressed-up masquerade mask cookies. Add gold painted rock candy sticks for that extra little flair. (via Bake Love Give)

Homemade jambalaya is so flavorful, and worth the extra few ingredients. Make a huge pot and serve with plenty of hot sauce on the side for your friends to help themselves. (via Aberdeen’s Kitchen)

King Cake is one of the most well-known aspects of Mardi Gras, but it’s not exactly something you can make on the fly. This layered cake is a lot simpler than you would think, and is totally impressive. (via Beth Cakes)

This po’boy is about as classic New Orleans as you can get, all the way down to the homemade cajun seasoning that flavors the shrimp. All of your friends are definitely going to be begging you for this recipe the next day. (via The Kitchen Whisperer)

To make these burgers, you can either start your red beans and rice from scratch, or you can use leftovers to make your patties. Either way, it’s totally worth it to make your own, because they’re AH-mazing. (via My Cooking Spot)

If you need a Mardi Gras dessert but don’t have a lot of time, this cake will be your life saver. It lets you take some help from the grocery store by using yellow cake mix and pistachio instant pudding for both flavor and vibrant color. (via Sew You Think You Can Cook)

What is the most popular drink for Mardi Gras?

The Sazerac is a great drink to make if you're prepping for a Mardi Gras celebration. All you need is anise liquor, sugar, water, bitters, and whiskey. Plus a lemon peel twist for the garnish! Keep reading for a great recipe to try it for yourself.

What do you drink at Mardi Gras?

There are a variety of cocktails you can make for Mardi Gras, including a Sazerac, bloody Mary, or some colorful punches.

What is the Fat Tuesday drink?

A Fat Tuesday is like a grown-up slurpee. It's a slushie that has alcohol in it, which means it's a great Mardi Gras cocktail *and* the perfect happy hour sip once the weather warms up.

This chartreuse, gin, and mint cocktail is elegant enough to look totally dapper for Mardis Gras, yet strong enough to keep your party joyfully unrefined. Be warned: A teaspoon of chartreuse is all this recipe calls for, but trust us — it will be plenty. (via The Bojon Gourmet)

This classic Mardi Gras cocktail recipe features whiskey, Absinthe, and bitters for a recognizable and iconic flavor. Don't forget the lemon twist garnish! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Moscow mules are kinda having a moment right now, and we’re not sad about it. Made with ginger beer, vodka, and lime juice, they’re both plenty strong yet pleasantly light in terms of taste. This version throws blueberries, basil, and maple syrup into the mix. (via Marla Meridith)

Sangria is the *ultimate* party drink, so why not make it with green fruits to get in the spirit of Mardi Gras? Green apples and pears comprise the fruit portion of this sweet sangria, with white grape juice thrown in for good measure. (via Cooks With Cocktails)

If there are any lemon lovers in your group, they’re going to LOVE this refreshing cocktail. Pro tip: To make the lemon curl, all you need is a standard peeler and a skewer. Just remove a 3/4 inch of lemon peel and wrap it around the skewer, and set aside to allow the shape to form. (via A Communal Table)

This green-and-purple cocktail may be inspired by a super-villain, but it’s the stuff of Mardi Gras DREAMS. The rim is lined with sugar that’s been dyed purple with food coloring (um, *genius*), while the drink itself is made with Midori sour, rum, vodka, and simple syrup. (via Life She Has)

Blueberries give this martini a deep shade of purple, while lime spirals add a little green into the mix. Pro tip: Look for blueberry vodka if you can find it — it will make this drink all the more blueberry-like. However, if you prefer a more classic martini (or simply can’t find blueberry vodka), good old-fashioned vodka will work just fine. (via Yummy Tummies)

Fat Tuesday calls for upping your bacon consumption, right? We can’t think of a better way to pack it in than with these delicious bloody Marys. Kick off your Mardi Gras with a bang by serving these at a boozy brunch with your besties. (via Heather Christo)

Making color-coordinated cocktails for your Mardi Gras bash doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple pineapple margarita will totally do the trick. This recipe is sure to be a major crowd-pleaser too… who doesn’t love the sweet yet natural taste of fresh pineapple? (via Miss in the Kitchen)

We think this pretty cocktail is the PERFECT drink to serve at your Mardi Gras party. The colors are totally on-point: Basil leaves give the drink a subtle green shade, while lemon wedges and lavender sprigs round up the festive color palette. (via Port and Fin)

Speaking of crowd-pleasing drinks, smoothies are an easy choice when it comes to selecting something everyone will love. And these festively hued smoothies are no exception. Bonus points for finding some Mardi Gras-themed straws to accompany these colorful concoctions. (via Living Well Kitchen)

Elegant and *super* pretty, this Tom Collins-inspired drink boasts a smooth, feminine flavor while still managing to be quite a doozy in terms of strength. It’s made with elderflower and violet liqueur, so it’s definitely a sophisticated choice for your Mardi Gras party. (via Hungry Girl Por Vida)

This classic yellow-toned cocktail can be adjusted to your desired level of sweetness. If you’re a lover of all things sugary, be sure to line the rim with granulated sugar for *ultimate* flavor. (via Homemade Hooplah)

For a less traditional take on the classic margarita, don’t be afraid to spice things up. These tasty ‘ritas are made with matcha green tea, tequila, fresh jalapeños, and honey simple syrup for a truly unique flavor profile. (via Wicked Spatula)

This uber-pretty cocktail gets its gorgeous shade of purple from blueberries, but it owes half of its flavor profile to pineapple. Although you can absolutely spring for Champagne, any dry sparkling wine will do the trick. (via Tasty Trials)

Gold Hinge Steel Pleated Tennis Skirt

Pleats are a quintessential part of tenniscore. Super-fine pleats (like the ones on this skort from Gold Hinge) are totally the way to go if you wanna nail the trend. This pick features stretchy spandex shorts underneath for added coverage, pockets on both sides, quick-dry fabric, and an adorable drop-waist detail to further flatter your figure.

The Pleated Tennis Skirt goes for $49. It is available in 21 different colors and sizes XS-XXL.

Free People Movement One More Serve Skortsie

What's better than a skort? A skort dress. This one from Free People is an absolute serve, boasting a playful strappy back and contrasting trim that'll have all eyes on you! The built-in shelf bra and shorts deem this tenniscore piece a true one-and-done since you won't need to layer anything underneath.

The One More Serve Skortsie comes in 9 colors and sizes XS-XL for $128.

Lou & Grey Sporty Mesh Zip Sweater

This luxe-looking $48 sweater recalls the sport with a fine mesh knit, cap sleeves, and a pointy collar that zips up. The stark white color is tenniscore's perfect match, as a lot of the aesthetic leans into opulence, and therefore, cleanliness. The wider waistband can be worn tucked in or outside of skirts or shorts, depending on your preference.

This Lou & Grey Sporty Mesh Zip Sweater is on sale for $48 (was $80) and is available in sizes XXS-XXL.

Golden Hour Santa Barbara Tennis Association Cotton Graphic Baby Tee

If you're a bit unsure about going full-out into tenniscore with a short pleated skirt, ease into the aesthetic by sporting something more subtle, like this graphic baby tee! The illustrative lettering on the front feels opulent as ever, even though this is a super-cozy and casual style you could wear every single day.

This tee is currently on sale at Nordstrom for $10 (was $24) and is shoppable in sizes XS-XL.

Abercrombie & Fitch YPB sculptLUX Polo Mini Dress

The polo collar! The zipper! The sporty material! This butter yellow dress from Abercrombie & Fitch has it all. It's crafted from their sculptLUX active fabric, which is designed to hold you in and sculpt your bod in the best ways. The half-zip detail along the neckline allows you to get a lil' cheeky with your look, too. This mini features built-in shorts so you can feel appropriately covered up when you're on the go.

The Polo Mini Dress is available in three other easy-to-match colors and sizes XXS-XXL for $80.

Adidas Gazelle Sneakers

Any tenniscore 'fit absolutely warrants a sporty sneaker to match, and the Adidas Gazelles answer that call to a tee. The flat soles echo that of technical tennis shoes that the pros wear, while the rest of the silhouette aligns with the modern shoe trends we're seeing today. The triple-striped design on the sides is undeniably iconic, too!

The Adidas Gazelle sneakers come in 16 other color combos for $120.

Venus Williams x Bombas Quarter Sock 3-Pack

You'll surely need some socks to pair with your tenniscore-approved shoes, and there's no question that these Bombas ones made in collaboration with *the* Venus Williams are the ones to snag! Venus employed her pro-level understanding of the sport to create these practical socks that boast strategic cushioning, arch support, and a sweat-wicking material to leave you with a cozy step – on and off the court.

This 3-pack of socks goes for $57 and is currently available in sizes S and M.

H&M Oversized Sports Sweatshirt

For the perfect sporty outer layer to work, it needs to breathe. Luckily, this oversized pullover from H&M boasts a fast-drying cotton fabrication that surrounds the entire look. Casual dropped shoulders and long cuffed sleeves add to the laid-back vibe of tenniscore, and the front even boasts a motivational message – "move" – to keep you going!

The Oversized Sports Sweatshirt is shoppable in 4 other colors and sizes XS-XXL for $35.

Gold Hinge Bone 2-Toned Tiered Pleated Tennis Skirt

This tennis skirt is uniquely designed with a more scalloped hem –rather than a straight one – which provides ample coverage for your every move! The two-toned colorway adds some visual interest without feeling too out-of-place, plus this pick has built-in spandex shorts with pockets for conveniently storing your phone and other courtside essentials.

The Tiered Pleated Tennis Skirt is $54 and shoppable in sizes XS-XXL.

Prince Pickleball Cable Knit Cardigan

Target recently collaborated with Prince for a very tenniscore fashion collection, and it's everything! This cable knit cardi is a definite staple for rocking the sporty trend on chilly days. The buttoned front allows you to wear this cropped cardigan buttoned up or unbuttoned, or you could tie this striped baby around your shoulders for a true touch of luxury! The blue and red stripes are so classic, too.

The Prince Pickleball Cable Knit Cardigan comes in sizes XS-XXL for $40.

Kate Spade New York Sweetheart Delicate Cubic Zirconia Tennis Bracelet

I love a tennis bracelet as much as the next person, but I don't always love how expensive they are. Luckily, this gold-plated design from Kate Spade is fairly priced at $128, and it has adorable little hearts instead of the classic square cut. It clasps easily around the wrist with a tongue-and-groove closure, so it'll stay on when you're out and about (or even making moves on the tennis court)!

Adidas Originals Cotton Blend French Terry Shorts

These terry shorts host a very vintage feel, which pairs excellently well with more nostalgic tenniscore pieces, like a polo tank or sweater vest! The Adidas logo and side stripes really seal the deal on the sheer sportiness of these bottoms as well. The elastic waistband hits high on the body, securing further with a drawstring.

The Adidas Originals Cotton Blend French Terry Shorts go for $45 at Nordstrom and are available in sizes XS-XL.

Athleta Momentum Seamless Polo Tank

This Athleta polo tank is clean, sleek, and summery – perfect for nailing down the more luxe side of tenniscore! It flaunts a seamless construction to ensure total comfort when you're wearing it. The silhouette is designed to fit snugly against your body, though take note that the fabric is fairly see-through. You'll likely need a racerback sports bra for extra coverage and support!

The Momentum Seamless Polo Tank costs $55 and is shoppable in sizes XXS-XL.

Prince Pickleball Cross-Back Pleated Dress

The contrasting white lining that adorns this sporty dress looks just like the lines on a tennis court. Your look will be a great match for, well, your next match! This wide-pleated, strappy-back mini is an easy 'pull on and go' type piece that'll look stunning for every outdoor occasion. It even comes in a bright red color that your doubles partner could twin in!

The Prince Pickleball Cross-Back Pleated Dress is available in sizes XS-XXL for $40.

Prince Pickleball Woven Mid-Rise Shorts

These mid-rise shorts feel oh-so 70's, and I am obsessed with the stark color blocking between the hem and the rest of the piece. They're an easy on-and-off, boasting a wide elastic waistband. They're made from a "sporty tech poplin" that emphasizes the utmost breathability.

The Prince Pickleball Woven Mid-Rise Shorts cost $30 and come in sizes XS-XXL.

Oomiay Tennis Huggie Earring

Turn your accessory game to total tenniscore with this sweet racket earring! The tiny charm dangles delicately from a snapping hoop, helping you step up your serve even more. This $55 piece is sold in one piece (as opposed to a pair, with two pieces), but when you bundle 3 or more Oomiay jewelry pieces, each one is just $33.

Girlfriend Collective Riley Sweetheart Dress

The compressive unitard lining under this athletic mini dress keeps your look collected and expertly sculpted, no matter what movements you're doing. The sweetheart neckline and strappy back elevate it to be more fashion-forward, so you could easily dress it up further with more formal outerwear and accessories.

The Girlfriend Collective Riley Sweetheart Dress comes in 5 colors total and sizes XXS-6XL for $88.