Overview: Mardi Gras
It is the annual Christian-rooted period spanning up to 10 days that allows for some extra indulging of food, drink, and social gatherings. It culminates with the let-loose festivity known as Mardi Gras (or Fat Tuesday), which this year falls on Feb. 17.
Carnival season is upon us.
It is the annual Christian-rooted period spanning up to 10 days that allows for some extra indulging of food, drink and social gatherings. It culminates with the let-loose festivity known as Mardi Gras (or Fat Tuesday), which this year falls on Feb. 17.
Mardi Gras is always held the day before Lent, when observers attempt to abstain for 40 days from some of their most sinful temptations, ranging from rich foods and sweets to booze and certain beverages.
While the French Quarter in New Orleans is home to the biggest Mardi Gras celebration in the country, San Diego offers several places that welcome beaded revelers to partake in feisty cocktails and festive foods.
Downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter becomes Mardi Gras central on Feb. 13, 14 and 17. It’s when Gaslamp Event Management presents a self-guided walking tour to 20 bars, restaurants and nightclubs honoring the celebration.
The trail begins at 6 p.m. each day at American Junkie, 628 Fifth Ave.
Various “sindulgences” will be available at the venues, which include Whiskey Girl, Karina’s Cantina, Greystone Steak & Lounge, Parq Nightclub and more.
Tickets start at $29. They include 10 free liquor shots, party favors and discounts on food and drinks. Revelers are encouraged to wear festive costumes that jive not only to Mardi Gras, but also to Valentine’s Day (Feb 14) and the Chinese Lunar New Year (Feb. 17).
Look no further than Urban Mo’s in Hillcrest for an evening filled with all-you-can-eat spaghetti for $8 and Mardi Gras show tunes. Beads and party favors will also enter the mix. The dinner is available from 5 to 11 p.m., Feb. 27. No reservations needed for the event, at 308 University Ave.
Also in Hillcrest, at the historic Brass Rail nightclub, “Fetish Gras” will be held nightly starting at 9 p.m. on Feb. 13-15 in the spirit of carnival season.
Event coordinator Joshua Simmons says the club will be given “Bourbon Street vibes” amid DJs, dancing and “live kink demos.”
Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased online or at the door.
Over in North Park, an all-day Mardi Gras party with live music will take place from noon to 10 p.m. Feb. 17, at Louisiana Purchase. The restaurant and bar is at 2305 University Ave.
Chef Quinnton Austin, a native of New Orleans, will present a limited menu of Louisiana favorites such as hurricane cocktails, NOLA iced coffee, fried catfish, Cajun wings, cheddar biscuits, and more.
In addition, the restaurant is accepting pre-orders for King Cake, a crown-shaped Mardi Gras pastry adorned with colorful icing and usually containing a small, plastic baby inside.
They sell for $45 each. Orders must be placed by Feb. 10. Pick them up on Feb. 16.
