Mardi-Gras Punch

Note: This festive punch combines the traditional Mardi-Gras colors of green, representing faith, gold symbolizing power, and purple denoting justice. It's equally delicious with or without the alcohol, just add more grape.

1 ice ring
1 40 oz. bottle grape juice (more if making ice ring)
2 oranges
1 48 oz can pineapple juice (more if making ice ring)
2 limes
2 liter bottle of ginger ale or lemon-lime soda
1 fifth Vodka (optional)

Ice Ring Note: Freezing an ice ring out of pineapple and/or grape juice, instead of water, keeps the punch from getting diluted as the evening wears on. Make a couple of rings in advance of the party, so you can freshen up the punch if needed.

Slice oranges and limes in thin round slices. Set aside. Place ice ring in bottom of punch bowl, add juices, then soda and (if desired) vodka. Float orange and limes slices on top and serve. Makes 8-9 quarts