Mardi Gras season is here! Although it’s primarily celebrated in the southern states, it has definitely made its way across the country in terms of celebrations. Local bars, pubs, clubs and cities, are hosting Mardi Gras parties throughout the nation. If you’re looking to get in on the festivities, but don’t know where to start, here’s a guide to help you find a party in your town!
Long Beach Carnevale - Long Beach, CA
Starting with our native state, there are several spots to check out if you are in the Southern California area. If you live in the Los Angeles area like we do, you’ll want to check out the annual Long Beach Carnevale held at the Aquarium of the Pacific. This event is scheduled for March 1, 2014 and will feature musical performances, street performers, and plenty more to replicate a Venetian style celebration. Visitors are invited to dress up in costumes and masks for the celebration and it’s also family friendly!
San Diego Mardi Gras – San Diego, CA
San Diego’s historical downtown Gaslamp district will be holding a Mardi Gras block party on March 4th and if you live in the area, this is one party you will not want to miss! Local restaurants will be featuring tons of food and drink specials. There will be street parades and musical performers. The event will also feature several djs including Snoopadelic, (or more commonly known as Snoop Dogg) to keep the party going all night! Find more information and purchase tickets on their website.
Pensacola Mardi Gras - Pensacola, FL
With a rich history dating back to 1874, the tradition of Mardi Gras continues in Pensacola in 2014. Parties and parades are already in full swing and will continue on through March. If you’re planning to pay a visit in February or March, you’ll want to catch one of their parades which are typically held on Saturdays. Visit the Pensacola Mardi Gras website for the full parade schedule, lodging information and other resources.
Universal Studios - Orlando, FL
Universal Studios, Florida will once again host their Mardi Gras Grand Celebration this year now through May 31st. Head on over to the French Quarter Courtyard for Cajun food, concerts, parades and more! You'll be able to catch some of the biggest names in music like Robin Thicke, Wheezer, Kool & The Gang to name a few. Once the park closes, adults can head over to Universal City Walk to continue the celebration at several bars and restaurants.
Soulard Mardi Gras - St. Louis, MO
Mardi Gras in St. Louis boasts to have one of the largest celebrations outside of New Orleans. Partying starts as early as January and goes all the way through March and features a variety of activities from food tastings and cook-offs, to charity events, to parades, and more!
Mardi Gras, NOLA - New Orleans, LA
Last, but not least, is the mecca of Mardi Gras celebrations. New Orleans will continue their historic tradition of Fat Tuesday in their typical fashion. With their world-renowned parades all through February and March, you can soak up all that the Big Easy has to offer. There, you can catch beads, dress up in costume, catch a parade, taste the cuisine and, if you’re feeling frisky, visit the French Quarter for plenty of grown up mischief.
Although this wraps up our list, we’re sure you can find a local spot to celebrate in your very own city. If you know of a great place to celebrate Mardi Gras in your area, please share it with us so we can pass along the info! Also, be sure to enter our Pin It to Win It Mardi Gras contest for your chance to win $50 worth of Mardi Gras masks from our website. Until next time, laissez les bons temps rouler!Labels: Events, Holidays, Mardi Gras, Themed Parties, Trends
