Celebrate Mardi Gras

You don't have to live in New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras. You and your friends can stay in -- where you won't get into too much trouble -- don colorful costumes and beads, and whip up some HurRAcanes (that's RA Sushi's version of Hurricanes) or Southern Juleps.

What? You really wanted to go out and party? Here are some events in the Phoenix area where you can "laissez les bons temps rouler!"

Mardi Gras in Chandler

What: Mardi Gras Celebration
Where: San Marcos Resort, Downtown Chandler
Cost: ?
In 2012: Sunday, February 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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The Arizona Classic Jazz Society presents Mardi Gras with Original Wildcat Jass Band, Arizona Roadrunners and 52nd Street Jazz Band.

Mardi Gras in Phoenix

What: Downtown Phoenix Mardi Gras Parade, Festival & Pub Crawl
Where: Downtown Phoenix
Cost: Pub Crawl: $8 in advance or $10 at the gate. Trolleys take teams to each bar. Wristbands must be picked up or purchased by 10 p.m. at the Downtown Phoenix Ambassadors table at CityScape.
In 2012: Saturday, February 18 starting at 2:30 p.m.
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See a picture of the Mardi Gras Parade!

Celebrate Mardi Gras with the Mardi Gras Parade, Festival & Mardi Crawl. Spend some time in different Downtown Phoenix bars and restaurants and enjoy entertainment, food samples, and drink specials only available to Mardi Crawl participants. Mardi Gras regalia strongly encouraged! Participation in the parade is free, the festival will be held at CityScape. Mardi Crawl starts at 10 p.m. 21+ only.

Mardi Gras in Scottsdale

What: Mardi Gras Gala
Where: The Venue Scottsdale, 7117 E. 3rd Ave., Scottsdale
Cost: Tickets start at $200 per person
In 2012: Saturday, February 18
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The Valley’s elite will gather on Fat Tuesday to support the Epilepsy Foundation of Arizona. The Mardi Gras Gala the crowning of the "Mardi Gras King/Queen." This individual’s active involvement in business and social concerns demonstrates their desire to support local organizations, including the Epilepsy Foundation of Arizona. Concert, street performers, burlesque show, casino gambling and Cajun cuisine.

What: Carnaval AZ
Where: Martini Ranch in Scottsdale
Cost: $20 per person
In 2012: February 24 at 8 p.m.
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The Brazilian celebration includes various aspects of Brazil’s vibrant culture with authentic demonstrations of Brazilian music, dance, capoeira, costuming, drumming, art, food, drinks and more. 21+ only.

What: Mardi Gras Themed Cooking Class
Where: Maggiano's, 16405 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale
Cost: $75 per person, all inclusive
In 2012: Thursday, February 23
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Join Chef Andrew and learn how to make: Hurricanes, Cajun Crawfish Boil, Red Beans & Rice, Crawfish & Chicken Etouffee and King Cake. Call 480-333-4100 for a reservation.

Need a Costume for Mardi Gras?

Try the Mardi Gras Costume Shop in Scottsdale.

_{All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.}