The Mardi Gras in NYC guide

Are you ready for Fat Tuesday? Celebrate Mardi Gras NYC-style and with our pick of fun events including parties

By Jillian Anthony and Jennifer Picht Posted: Monday February 6 2017

Every year, New York's usual anxiety and chaotic charm turns laissez-faire via the Crescent City for Mardi Gras. NYC’s Fat Tuesday is a typically rambunctious affair, featuring jazz performances at some of the best jazz clubs in the city, plus more funky shows. There also rich cuisine from Cajun restaurants, king cake and some of the best parties in New York. So, for your celebratory pleasure, here's our roundup of the city's best Big Easy events.

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When is Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras is on Tuesday, February 13, 2018.

What is Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras (french for "Fat Tuesday") is a Carnival celebration that takes place the day before Ash Wednesday. People celebrate and feast before the Lenten season begins.

Mardi Gras in NYC events

"Funky Fat Tuesday" Celebration with George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic

George Clinton—the one and only Uncle Jam and author of (deep breath) Brothas Be, Yo Like George, Ain't That Funkin' Kinda Hard on You?—lands the mothership for a night of ass-liberating funk. Here the funk innovator hosts what's become an annual Mardi Gras celebration for a sixth straight year.

Until Tue Feb 13

Bierhaus NYC Mardi Gras

Glug numerous brews, gorge on doughy pretzels, get your hands on some beads and revel in the gluttony during a special Fat Tuesday celebration inside this German Hall. Enjoy listening to some live music and, if you’re up for it, sign up for trivia.

Until Tue Feb 13

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Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers

Big Easy staple Kermit Ruffins isn't much of an innovator—that's why they call it traditional,after all—but the bright-faced Louis Armstrong imitator oozes personality and onstage flair. He hits the Blue Note for a roomy Mardi Gras–week run.

Until Sun Feb 11

NYC Mardi Gras (Official Day Party)

Day drinkers, start your engines. This eight-hour Mardi Gras hooplah kicks off at noon in a sprawling two-story sports bar in Midtown. Tunes comes courtesy of DJs Copenhagen and Pim, live musicians keep things festive and $6 drinks before 4pm ensure you'll feel plenty loose by sundown.

Until Sat Feb 10

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Mardi Gras: Brass, Sass & Ass at House of Yes

Costumes are encouraged at this Bourbon Street–inspired rager dubbed Brass, Sass & Ass. The fete involves a colorful parade, a live brass band, death-defying circus performers and plenty of carnival bedazzlement. We dare you to see how many beads you can collect (or earn) before night's end.

Until Tue Feb 13

Lower Eastside Girls Club's Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball

After two years off, the Lower East Side Girls Club revives its annual Mardi Gras soiree. Don green, gold, purple or black cocktail attire, purchase a mask made by a Girls Club member for $10 and hit the dance floor to the sounds of DJ Steve Tek. The evening also features a live NOLA-style brass marching band, swing dancing, a performance from Princess Shaw, raffle prizes and that warm fuzzy feeling you get from supporting a good cause.

Until Tue Feb 13

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Fat Tuesday at Threes Brewing

Head to Gowanus for a Mardi Gras get down featuring a Dr. John–themed music performance from the folks behind 3 Ring Bender, eats from The Meat Hook, New Orleans–themed cocktails and, of course, king cake.

Until Tue Feb 13