We may be one letter off from NOLA, but in NoVA we know how to have a great time for Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday. Here are some great Mardi Gras activities in Northern Virginia for those who want to get in the spirit and celebrate.
Arty-Gras Party
February 17, 8 p.m.-February 18, 2 a.m.
Artomatic’s first ARTY-GRAS party is at Arlington’s WHINO. Reserve a spot (admission is free) and for a fun costume contest with cash prizes. DJ Mike Rodriguez will provide the tunes. Those who want to be a part of the costume contest should email [email protected]. WHINO: 4238 Wilson Blvd., Second Floor, Arlington
Culpeper Carnival
February 18
Downtown Culpeper will be transformed into a Mardi Gras fantasy with over 40 downtown merchant and dining specials and activities. Kids will love magician and illusionist Wes Iseli, and families can take part in a scavenger hunt to win a gift basket. There will be lots of gumbo, po’ boys, king cake, and more available for purchase. 127 West Davis St., Culpeper
Samedi Gras 2023
February 18, 11 a.m.
The Cajun-owned and operated winery and vineyard is hosting “Samedi Gras,” a festive event in the venue’s NOLA-style tasting room. Expect dancing, beads, king cake and of course, all of the best-selling Breaux wines. Space is limited. Buy $15 tickets in advance for this all-adult event. Breaux Vineyards: 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Purcellville
Beads & Brews
February 18, 8 p.m.
What would a Mardi Gras celebration be without lots of cocktails, dancing, and free beads? Head to B Live this weekend for a night of revelry, music, and more. The band Up All Night will perform at 9:30 p.m. Entry is free with an RSVP. B Live: 2854 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
55+ Mardi Gras Celebration
February 21, noon-2 p.m.
The Vienna Community Center is hosting a Mardi Gras party for adults ages 55 and up. There will be an afternoon of festivities including a Cajun cuisine lunch, trivia, and Mardi Gras mask making. Guests are encouraged to wear purple, green, and gold. Vienna Community Center: 120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna
Bayou Bakery Mardi Pardi
February 21, 6-9 p.m.
Bayou Bakery’s Mardi Pardi will be hosted by Chef David Guas, who was born and raised in New Orleans. On Tuesday, Bayou Bakery will extend its hours to celebrate Fat Tuesday with food specials and live music. Tickets can be purchased at the door. Each ticket gets you three items in either booze or grub. Sweets are à la carte. Bayou Bakery: 1515 N. Courthouse Rd., Arlington
Fat Tuesday Celebration
February 21, 8-11 p.m.
The epiQ Food Hall is throwing a huge kickoff to Carnival and Mardi Gras season. The food hall will be transformed into Bourbon Street, with Cajun food from Bon Mangé Cuisine, hurricanes and Sazerac cocktails from QBar, and, of course, beads and feathers galore. epiQ Food Hall: 14067 Noblewood Plz., Woodbridge
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