Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” is the day before Ash Wednesday, which is the first day of Lent. During Lent, the faithful practice self-denial. So, on the eve before Lent, folks like to practice a bit of self-indulgence while they still can. In the United States, New Orleans is known for having the biggest bash in the nation. Huge parade, plenty of booze, lots of women bearing their breasts. But, coming in a close second to New Orleans is Sonoma County. Nah, I’m just kidding. We don’t really do that much for Mardi Gras. But, we do have a handful of events to help you with your self-indulgence:
Santa Rosa Party on Fat Tuesday:
- Tuesday February 5 :
Mardi Gras Mambofest with a Parade Through Railroad Square
You know, if you could just slap some wrought iron balconies on those old, stone buildings in Railroad Square, it would look a tiny bit like New Orleans. So, why not go and celebrate Mardi Gras there. The Last Day Saloon is throwing a big party and the bash includes a parade through Railroad Square headed by the Rhythmtown Jive band playing big brass instruments. The parade is at 6:30 pm and everyone is invited to join in. The procession then returns to the Last Day Saloon where more merriment ensues. Rhythmtown Jive will continue to play R&B, zydeco, funk and roots and KRSH DJ Bill Bowker will continue to broadcast live from the event. On top of it all, the kitchen will be serving up some New Orleans inspired dishes.
Starts at 3pm, parade starts at 6:30pm; $7 cover after 7pm; 21+; Last Day Saloon, 120 Fifth St, Santa Rosa (707) 545-2343
More Mardi Gras Fetes Around Sonoma County:
- February 2 :
Mardi Gras Ball & Dance Showcase
Cajun dinner, dancing and performances by ballroom, Latin, Argentine tango and swing professionals at Monroe Hall.
7pm; Monroe Hall, 1400 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa, (707) 529-2824
- February 2 :
Gator Beat at Little Switzerland
8pm-12:30am, dance lesson at 8pm; $10, Little Switzerland, 19080 Riverside Dr, Sonoma, (707) 938-9910
- February 2 :
New Orleans Jazz Band
Come in costume, if you wish, and dance the night away with the 4th Street New Orleans Jazz Band a the French Garden Restaurant.
7:30 – 10:30pm; No admission charge; 8050 Bodega Ave, Sebastopol, (707) 824-2030.
- February 3 : Wild Catahoulas
Mardi Gras party with Wild Catahoulas at Rocker Oysterfeller's
Valley Ford Hotel, 14415 Hwy 1, Valley Ford. (707) 876-1983
- February 5:
The Pulsators
Mardi Gras party with the Pulsators at Tradewinds Bar.
8210 Old Redwood Hwy, Cotati (707) 795-7878
