Bust Out the Beads and Lassiez le Bon Temps Rouler!!

Mardi Gras or ‘Fat Tuesday’ is the last day of the Carnival season in which people around the world indulge in fatty foods, masked gaiety and irreverent behavior before the strict period of Lent.   Anyone can join in the fun and festivities – whether you’re religiously observant or just enjoy wearing purple, green and gold – plus, it’s a great excuse to enjoy dancing to some good zydeco or jazz in the Orange County area.

Fun Facts about Mardi Gras

  • The Purple (Justice), Green (Faith) and Gold (Power) colors of Mardi Gras are an American Carnival tradition.  The Rex Krewe supposedly adopted the colors at the suggestion of Grand Duke Alexei Romanov during his visit to New Orleans in 1872.
  • The tradition of throwing beads is said to have originated in 1830s New Orleans and became popular when inexpensive  glass beads came from Czechoslovakia.  Today, Mardi Gras parade floats toss various trinkets: beads, cups, frisbees, plush toys, LED toys, and doubloons.  “Throw me something mister…” the call of the begging parade goer.
  • Louis Armstrong was announced as the King of Zulu Parade of Mardi Gras 1949.

Where to Celebrate Mardi Gras in Orange County

  • Ralph Brennen’s Jazz Kitchen – This Downtown Disneyland hot spot is sure to be hoppin’ from 4p-10p with jazz, bead, and authentic New Orleans cuisine.  Make reservations and don’t forget to bring your beads!
  • Steamers Jazz Club and Cafe – Head to Downtown Fullerton for a unique jazz club experience.  Enjoy the sounds of  the Chris Williams Sextet for a special Fat Tuesday Celebration.  An excellent place for a more subdued celebration.
  • Huntington Beach Marlin Club & Surf City Nights – There will be a Grateful Dead Tribute Band at the Marlin Grill, while on Main Street, Surf City Nights will be decked out in purple, green and gold from 5-9p.
  • CSUF Hosts Carnaval Brasil – Celebrate Mardi Gras Brazilian style!  Samba Dancers, Capoeria and Latin Foods fill the campus from 11a-2p
  • Special Menus at RA Sushi and Bluewater Grill – These Huntington Beach, Newport Beach and Tustin eateries are offering one-night only specialty menus and drinks in honor of Mardi Gras.
  • Free Pancake Day at IHOP – In honor of the English Shrove or ‘Pancake’ Tuesday, IHOP offers a free short stack of pancakes! Mmmm…

Get in the Carnival Spirit with Zumba

Get in the Carnival spirit while you get in shape!  Join Kristy Ottomeyer at Atomic Ballroom Irvine this Tuesday morning for Zumba Fitness.  This latin-inspired dance fitness-program will put the pulse in your hips, sweat on your brow and a smile on your face.  Before you know it, you’ll be ready to samba the night away and leap for those beads!