Carnival season is a time of traditions. But when Mardi Gras was canceled in 2021, New Orleans had to get creative with how they celebrated. And more importantly, artists that make Mardi Gras so special were out of work at a time that they needed it most.
Krewe of Red Beans came up with a plan that would keep artists working, keep traditions going and keep the spirit of Mardi Gras alive. The solution? House floats. From porches to balconies, residents commissioned artists to decorate the front of their homes.
In partnership with Krewe of Red Beans, we commissioned a house float in the lobby of the Sazerac House. The float was designed and created by a team of local artists including Caroline Thomas, Dana Buehler, Sarah Bastacky, Ryan Blackwood, Ariel Troxclair, Lindsey DeBlieux and Joey Mercer. Then, we sat down with Krewe of Red Beans founder Devin De Wulf to talk about the history of house floats, his Mardi Gras tips and the most important question of all: why beans?
Visit the Sazerac House before 3/1 to see the house float for yourself.
Events
The Weller Classroom Experience
Step into the story of one of bourbon’s most enduring families and discover how William Larue Weller helped pioneer the wheated style that would later inspire the Van Winkle legacy. This guided tasting explores four expressions—Special Reserve, Antique 107, Full Proof, and 12 Year—tracing Weller’s journey from the days of the Stitzel-Weller Distillery through the industry’s quiet decades of the 1970s and 1980s to its modern revival under Buffalo Trace. Guests will nose, taste, and compare each whiskey in an elegant classroom setting, uncovering how proof, age, and history intertwine to shape the signature richness of Weller and the heritage of American bourbon. 21+ only.
Hosting the Holidays Class
Raise your spirits with a guided holiday cocktail experience that blends festive fun with the rich history behind classic drinks like the Espresso Martini, French 75, and Milk Punch—each with a seasonal twist. Perfect for a cheerful date night or for mastering cocktails that will wow your friends and family at your next holiday gathering. 21+ only.
Spirit of Sazerac: A Holiday Shopping Experience
Step into the Spirit of Sazerac and kick off the holidays with a spirited evening of sipping, shopping, and seasonal cheer! From 5:00–7:30 PM, browse our pop-up holiday boutique filled with festive gifting ideas and cocktail gift sets. Don’t miss our live cocktail demos featuring this season’s signature creation at 5:00, 5:30, 6:00, and 6:30 PM. Come raise a glass, find your perfect holiday gift, and enjoy a little Sazerac sparkle.
