Staff Report
It’s Mardis Gras season. Unlike the other seasons we so anticipate, Mardis Gras is actually fun. Masks, excessive jewelry — reused, not plastic if we’re keeping Fayetteville Funky — parades and of course, being free from judgment if we decide to drink way too much alcohol — at least from moderate circles.
Since we live in NWA, there is an abundance of ways to spend your holiday, from young to old and fancy to frenzy. Here are a few ideas, but whatever you do, be safe, respectful and have a great time!
Fat Saturday Parade of Fools, sponsored by the Mardi Gras of Arkansas group, on Sat., Feb. 9, at 2 p.m. in downtown Fayetteville boasts an event full of costumes, floats, beads…and more beads. It’s not the debauchery one might imagine with all those beads flying around. This is a family-friendly event that’s as fun to watch as it is to participate. The parade will begin on the Fayetteville square and proceed north on Block Street, east on Dickson Street and end at West Street.
Fat Tuesday on Dickson is another event sponsored by MGA. Join Fayetteville’s most Demented Krewes, Tues., Feb. 12, starting at 7 p.m. Before the pub crawl at 8:30 p.m., there will be a Crowning of the Royalty of the Demented Krewe on Dickson beginning at 8 p.m. Once the Demented is crowned, Krewes will be seen parading down the street with the Billy Zydeco Band through sponsoring clubs on Dickson.
The more the merrier as all adults are welcome. Feeling demented? This group says “come join us!!”
To volunteer for either of these events, or any persons or groups interested in participating, find information and downloadable forms at www.fayettevillemardigras.com or contact them at dementedkrewe@yahoo.com.
Speakeasy Mardis Gras Masquerade will no doubt be one of the highlights of the downtown festivities starting Sat., Feb. 9, at 9 p.m. Like all of the themed parties at Speakeasy on West Spring Street, costumes are encouraged, but not required. From what we’ve heard of Speakeasy parties, come ready to dance and have some Mardi Gras fun!
Mardis Gras for Energy may be a bit of a drive, but for such a specialized field of interest, it’s worth mentioning. Also, they’re offering free hors d’oeuvres and libations, along with music by Snake Eyes and the Bugs Band. This event is for any legislatures, friends or colleagues wanting to celebrate clean energy in Arkansas (and anyone looking for a free snack). Hosted by the Treadwell Institute and held at the Union Train Station in Little Rock, starting at 7 p.m.
Eureka Gras should again prove to be a highlight of tourism meets local community from Thurs., Feb. 7, to Tues., Feb. 12. Festivities are as vibrant as the citizens of Eureka Springs, with a Hookers and Jokers Ball on Thurs. and a Mardi Gras Parade on Sat., with decorated floats and a canine parade. That’s not all, so see the Mardi Gras season has to offer in Eureka Springs by visiting http://www.krazo.ureeka.org/2013_schedule.htm.
