The Mardi Gras in NYC guide

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.