Mardi Gras season is here, and Birmingham is celebrating in style. From king cakes and parades to themed parties and live entertainment, there’s no shortage of ways to join the fun. Check out these 10 standout Mardi Gras events happening around the city.
A few dates to keep in mind as you prep to celebrate this year:
Joe Cain Day: Sunday, February 15
Lundi Gras: Monday, February 16
Fat Tuesday: Tuesday, February 17
1. ABWA Birmingham Charter Chapter Woman of the Year Mardi Gras Day Party
When: Saturday, February 21 from 2–6 p.m.
Where: Boutwell Auditorium
How much: $65
Details: There will be music, food, and a speaker, making this American Business Women’s Association event one for the books!
2. Bluff Park Mardi Gras Parade
When: February 14 at 11 a.m.
Where: Parade starts at Shades Cliff pool
How much: Free
Details: Join the Bluff Park community for this annual celebration of Mardi Gras. The parade features colorful floats, beads, and fun festivities! The After Party will be at The Electric from noon until 3 p.m. with live music and food.
3. Eastside Trekkers Mardi Gras 5K Fun Run/Walk
When: Saturday, February 21 at 8 a.m.
Where: East Lake Park (8101 4th Ave. N., Birmingham)
How much: Free
Details: Dress to impress with your boldest Mardi Gras colors and get ready to move! Prize awarded for the best costume.
4. Mardi Gras at The Summit
When: February 17 from 5–8 p.m.
Where: The Summit (214 Summit Blvd. Birmingham)
How much: Free
Details: Experience Birmingham’s “Bourbon Street” filled with jazzy tunes and specialty drinks. Be sure to snag your “passport,” beads, and a sweet treat from Guest Services near Kendra Scott—if you collect 2 stamps on your passport, you can enter to win the Mardi Gras prize package!
5. Mardi Gras Murder Mystery at the Masquerade
When: January 24 from 6:30–9:30 p.m.
Where: Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens
How much: $65/person
Details: Step into a world of mystery and magic, where masks hide secrets and clues await your detective skills! There will also be a Farm-to-Table dinner by Chef Matthew Murphree.
6. Mardi Gras on the Mountain
When: Saturday, February 7 at 6 p.m.
Where: The Club (1 Robert S. Smith Dr., Birmingham)
How much: $150/person or $200/couple
Details: Easterseals of the Birmingham Area’s annual fundraising event, with a nine-piece live band, a silent auction, and a New Orleans–inspired buffet dinner.
7. Mardi Gras Sneaker Ball
When: Saturday, February 7 from 9–11:30 p.m.
Where: Uptown Jazz Lounge (2250-B 9th Ave. N., Birmingham)
How much: $65
Details: Dance the night away in your freshest kicks. Why not dress up and still wear comfy shoes?
8. MOMS Club of Birmingham Mardi Gras Kids Parade
When: February 17
Where: Location TBD (last year, it was at Homewood Central Park)
How much: Free
Details: Decorate your wagons and strollers in purples, golds, and greens, and get ready to join in the fun as moms make some loops around the park!
9. Monte Gras Ball
When: February 7 at 6 p.m.
Where: Liberty Hall at American Village
How much: $75/ticket
Details: Celebrate Mardi Gras at this 2nd annual party—all proceeds benefit Montevallo Main Street, a nonprofit that works to revitalize the historic downtown. The event will include a cocktail hour, dinner by Hey Bebe, and live music by The Swing Kings.
10. Pelham Mardi Party
When: Saturday, February 28 from 7–11 p.m.
Where: Pelham Civic Complex (500 Amphitheater Rd., Pelham)
How much: $82
Details: This annual event is a fundraiser hosted by Pelham City Schools Foundation. Get ready to enjoy music, dancing, and a silent auction—all set up in a grand Mardi Gras casino night theme.
Looking for more fun? Discover other exciting things to do in Birmingham.
