Mardi Gras parties and events

If you can't make it to New Orleans for Mardi Gras this year, don't worry: There are specials on hurricanes, po'boys, all-you-can-eat crawfish boils and paczki at some of the best Chicago restaurants and bars. These Mardi Gras food and drink specials are being offered on Fat Tuesday—February 28—unless otherwise noted. RECOMMENDED: Our guide to Mardi Gras

It wouldn’t be Fat Tuesday without this round Polish pastry. We've gathered the best places to find these sweet treats, so you can surprise your loved ones with a traditional treat.

Devouring a low-country boil is absolutley the next-best thing to trekking down to New Orlenans. For a city that’s more than a decent schlep from the ocean, Chicago does surprisingly well when it comes to serving up droolworthy sea bounty. Gather round for hot, messy bags of crustaceans, bivalves, sausages, potatoes, corn and spices, ready and waiting for us to tear open. 

So maybe you can't make the trip down South for Mardi Gras, but you can still channel that spirit with excellent Southern barbecue. From Chatham to Pilsen to Wicker Park and beyond, the best BBQ in Chicago is found all over the city, so there's likely a great place near you.