I can still remember my first Mardi Gras. Having grown up in California, where Mardi Gras was not a big to do in the 1980s, I was shocked when I moved to Alabama and discovered this wonderful tradition. I was only 9 years old but I will never forget the music, food, and good will. Everyone was happy, singing and dancing, and having a great time. I have since moved and have lived for many years in Richmond, Virginia and though Mardi Gras isn’t as huge here as further south, there are still many great places to go throughout the month.
These days money is tight but if you want a New Orleans Mardi Gras then grab your $60 ticket to Bourbon Street in Shockoe Bottom at Main Street Station (grscan.ticketleap.com). Party Feb. 18 from 8pm to midnight with great jazz, hors d’oeuvres, a fantastic bourbon bar, hurricanes, games, and of course beads! Parking for this can be tough, last year parking was very well marked unlike in past years. I would get there early to insure a good parking spot in the actual lot or just down the road at a pay lot (free of charge after 5pm). Be advised that this is definitely an adult party but it is also the most authentic celebration in Central VA.
If you don’t want the traditional street festival feel, you might want to try one of the many local wineries. Cooper Vineyard (www.coopervineyards.com) has live jazz, beads, food and, of course, wine on Feb. 18 11am-5pm. For the $20 event fee you also get a great souvenir tasting glass. Then there is Horton Vineyard (540-832-7440) who is celebrating early on Feb. 4 with all the traditional food and drinks plus lots of fun games and prizes. You can party with them from 11am-5pm for $15. If you have the time and money I would suggest going to both and double your fun. Dress warmly as many of the wineries have their events outdoors and be prepared to have your car get a little dirty from the dirt parking lots.
If you are willing to drive for not only a great time but also for a worthy cause, consider Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball (www.vacure.org) which will be held down at the Virginia Beach Holiday Inn on Feb. 18. Registration starts at 7pm and there is a long list of shows and activates (Voo-Doo Magic show, live jazz, and a burlesque show just to name a few). If you don’t want to drive back that night, you can get the $199 ticket which includes two shows, two drinks (of course you can buy more), and your hotel room right there. Or if you are willing to drive back then you can get the $65 ticket which includes one show and one drink. Both include all activities, dinner and dancing. This is the first year for this event so please have patience should there be issues with things like parking.
Mardi Gras is about fun and living it up, so no matter where you decide to go have a great time and make those memories!