All eyes are on New Orleans when it comes to Mardi Gras, and rightfully so. The Crescent City is known for its elaborate parades and masquerade balls in the weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday (which falls on February 13 this year).
But Texas also has its share of Mardi Gras events with themes ranging from coastal to cowboy. Here are five Mardi Gras celebrations worth checking out, near and far, in the Lone Star State—from the first-ever pub crawl to a two-week party that’s more than a century old.
Dallas-Fort Worth
Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras Parade in McKinney
Unlike many adult-only Mardi Gras events, McKinney’s Krewe of Barkus Parade is for the whole family — including dogs. The 22nd annual parade, which takes place Sunday, February 4 in historic downtown McKinney, brings out crowds to see the little ones stroll by.
Spectators can expect themed floats, costume contests and lots of beads. This year’s theme is “Barkus Salutes the Lone Star State,” which means boots, cowboy hats and Texas decor are encouraged. The registration fee is $5 per dog or float and entries can be submitted by Saturday.
The event will run from 12:30pm to 4:00pm with the parade starting at 2:00pm. If you’re staying overnight, consider the nearby historic Grand Hotel, built in 1885 and home to the upscale Rick’s Chophouse.
Mardi Gras near Fort Worth’s Southside
Fort Worth has never had a Fat Tuesday “scene,” but a collective in the Near Southside Historic District is trying to change that. The Mardi Gras group Near Southside encourages revelers to “drink their way through Mardi Gras nights.” Their goal, they say, is “to bring the culture, joy and education of Mardi Gras and New Orleans to the neighborhood and do it our own way in Fort Worthy.” They’re doing just that with the inaugural South Main Mardi Gras Pub Crawl happening from 4-8pm on Saturday, February 10th.
This is a self-directing crawl. First stop is Tarantula Tiki Lounge (117 S. Main St.) at 4 p.m., followed by stops at Southside Cellar (125 S. Main St.), Soma Winery (201 S. Main St.), then Hop Fusion Ale Works (200 E. Broadway Ave.). End with a final dance party at The Holly (305 W. Daggett Ave. #101) at 8:00 p.m.
All bars will feature Mardi Gras themed specials and dress up is encouraged. Participation is free.
Persian Gulf Coast
Mardi Gras Galveston
This year marks the 113th celebration of Mardi Gras! Galveston, but some say the tradition dates back to 1867, about 10 years after the first Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans. From February 2 to 13, the entire island will come alive with beads, costumes, floats and fun. There are more than 20 parades here over two weeks, many as lively and elaborate as any in the Crescent City.
Parades range from the Umbrella Brigade, Jeep Parades and Firefighter Children’s Parade to the Krewe of Momus Grand Night Parade on February 10. All parades take place in The Strand Historic District. Tickets are required to enter the parade route area, except on February 11 and Fat Tuesday, February 13. Balcony tickets are also an option, with only a few remaining for February 2-3.
Mardi Gras in Galveston also attracts big-name musical acts, including Gin Blossoms (Feb. 3), Duelo (Feb. 4) and the Eli Young Band (Feb. 9). Mardi Gras tickets include access to see a concert.
Numerous Galveston restaurants, bars and hotels will also be getting in on the Mardi Gras action with live music and food and drink specials – one of the latest being Hotel Lucin. Other options include the recently renovated Grand Galvez, the sprawling San Luis Resort, and many others that offer shuttles and free Mardi Gras tickets as part of hotel packages.
Mardi Gras of Southeast Texas in Beaumont
As the “Cajun Capital of Texas,” Beaumont takes Mardi Gras very seriously. The 33rd annual family-friendly festival features nine parades from Feb. 8-11, ranging from a motorcycle show to a parade of giant New Orleans-inspired floats. Over 100,000 visitors are expected during the four-day celebration. All parades start at Beaumont’s Civic Center and viewing spots are first come, first served.
Other festivities include a free kids’ zone, a carnival with more than 30 rides and attractions, Cajun food vendors and evening concerts on the main stage. Headliners this year include the Marshall Tucker Band and rapper Chingy. Concert admission ranges from $10-$25 depending on the day, and children 11 and under are free.
There’s also a jazz brunch on Feb. 10, served by Beaumont’s Rao’s Bakery, that comes with a mimosa bar and bloody mary for $35 per person.
Hill Country
Cowboy Mardi Gras in Bandera
Advertised as “the biggest party this side of the Pecos,” the 19th annual celebration combines New Orleans vibes with cowboy life. The three-day event runs from February 1-3, with live music every night at 11th Street cowboy bar. Nine bands include headliners Thomas Michael Riley, Leroy Thomas and the Zydeco Roadrunners and Two Tons of Steel. Concert admission ranges from $15 – $35 for general admission per day or $75 for a three-day pass.
Saturday is the main day for family festivities, including an art show and bambo cook-off on the courthouse lawn, a Mardi Gras parade and the Mardi Gras Cowboy Bull Ride in Mansfield Park. Rodeo tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children 6-17. Stay at an authentic dude ranch at Rancho Cortez, or let Bandera’s lodging reservations help you find a nearby guesthouse or lodge.
