While the big holiday on everyone’s minds this week may be Valentine’s Day, there’s another celebration happening around the country. Tuesday, February 13 is Mardi Gras.
Mardi Gras is so much more than just one day of craziness. In America, the French brought the celebration of Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, to the region near the end of the 17th century. There were celebrations held for over a hundred years in honor of the holiday, but in 1875, Louisiana declared Mardi Gras a legal state holiday. They’ve been partying ever since.
The holiday marks the end of the Carnival season and the last night of excess before the Lenten season. The holiday isn’t just for Catholics though. It’s become part of the identity of New Orleans and throughout the U.S.
Columbus may be 900 miles away from The Big Easy, but the capital city still knows how to have a good time. If you’re looking to get out there and celebrate, here are six events that will let you embrace the holiday.
Are you ready for some fun, Columbus?
Mardi Gras Celebration
What: The Westin Hotel is celebrating Mardi Gras in style. Enjoy food from the $25 Chef’s Table, specialty cocktails (additional purchase), and the music of the Jazz Arts Group. The menu includes all of your NOLA inspired favorites, including Crawfish Bisque, New Orleans Slaw Muffaletta Salad, Okra Creole, Dirty Rice, Andouille & Shrimp Jambalaya Chicken Gumbo, Cajun Crusted Catfish Beignets, and King Cake.
When: February 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: The Westin, 310 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras Party BBR Columbus
What: According to BBR, they throw the largest Mardi Gras celebration in the Midwest. The party will feature four DJs, prizes, giveaways, and deals. Signing up on the guest list on BBR’s website will earn you free entry, set of beads, and a Hurricane glass. Get your tickets here.
When: February 13 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: BBR, 106 Vine St. Columbus, OH 43215
Fat Tuesday Party at Dempsey’s Food & Spirits
What: Dempsey’s Food & Spirits is celebrating Mardi Gras with delicious food and live music. Enjoy Jambalaya, Gumbo, Catfish & Shrimp Po’ Boy’s, Crawfish Etouffee, Red Beans & Rice, Crawfish Boil, Oysters Rockefeller, more while listening to Donna Magavero at 6 pm and the Apostles at 8 pm.
When: February 13 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: Dempsey’s Food & Spirits, 346 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Fat Tuesday Bead Bash
What: Let the good times roll! The party at Bar Louie will kick off early and run all day long. $5.50 Hurricanes and Blue Bayous, plus $10 Voodoo Chicken, Pasta, and Sandwiches.
When: February 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: Bar Louie, 1611 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, OH 43240
Fat Tuesdsay at J. Gumbo’s
What: Come for the gumbo, but stay for the King Cake! J. Gumbo’s knows that everyone is cajun on Mardi Gras, so go and enjoy authentic cuisine in a fun and vibrant environment!
When: February 13 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: J. Gumbo’s, 9 N Sandusky St, Delaware, OH 43015
Taco Tuesday: Mardi Gras
What: Every Tuesday at The Kitchen is Taco Tuesday. But this week, the eatery will be offering a Mardi Gras themed event. The menu will be served a la carte and feature specialty cocktail selections, beer, and wine. No reservation required!
When: February 13 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: The Kitchen, 31 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43215
