Natchez & Vicksburg Mardi Gras

The Mardi Gras spirit is so strong in Louisiana, it leaks over across the border. Find celebrations swathed in purple, green, and gold in Natchez and Vicksburg, with complete lists at vicksburgconventioncenter.com and visitnatchez.org. 

February 3

Jester's Ball: The City of Vicksburg sponsors this all-out affair, complete with flowing drinks, moon pies, food, and music by Southern Komfort. 7 pm. $30. vicksburgconventioncenter.com. 

February 4

Mardi Paws Parade: Join the HoofBeats and PawPrints Rescue at North Broadway in Natchez  at 2 pm for their festive event. Offerings include free nail trims by Petsense, discounted microchipping by Southside Vet, Della’s Lemonade Stand, and pet pictures by Petersen Photography, free CPR classes by Pafford, EMS, and a T–shirt comes with a donation of $25. Mayor and Mrs. Gibson will preside over contests including costumes, best-dressed dog, best dog/owner combo, and the most creative animal float competition. Don't miss this tail-wagging celebration. hoofbeatsandpawprintsrescue.org.

February 9

Krewe of Pheonix: Always up for an excuse to party, Natchez has a Mardi Gras parade of their own up there, too—the Krewe of Pheonix, and they go pretty big. Lit-up floats, live bands, and more free fun will abound at North Broadway starting at 6:30 pm. kreweofphoenixnatchez.com. 

February 10

Vicksburg Downtown Mardi Gras Parade: Local churches, businesses, drill teams and more strut down Washington Street during this community parade. 4 pm. vicksburgconventioncenter.com. 

Carnaval de Mardi Gras Gumbo Cook–Off: Spice up your Mardi Gras celebrations at the Carnaval de Mardi Gras Gumbo Cook-off at the Southern Heritage Cultural Center Auditorium 5 pm–7 pm for an evening of delectable gumbo and live music by Legal Tender. Admission is $10; $5 for children, and includes a complimentary gumbo bowl. (601)-636-5010.