8 Ways To Celebrate Mardi Gras 2022 In Colorado
Photo by Thomas Park.
Here are our top picks from around Colorado for ringing in Fat Tuesday this year.
Carnivale Weekend
Manitou Springs, CO
February 26, 2022
Calling all culinarians … test your skills at the Manitou Springs Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo Cook-Off. Participants can apply online and up to 20 chefs (both professional and amateur) are accepted on a rolling admission. Judges encourage attendees to taste-test the chefs’ creations at a mere 75 cents per sample. If Cajun soup isn’t your thing, gear up in extravagant Mardi Gras-themed costumes for the afternoon parade, led by the nominated Carnivale Court winners.
Learn more manitousprings.org.
Faturday Crawfish Boil
Montrose, CO
February 26, 2022
Check out Storm King Distilling Co. any time from 1 to 10 p.m. for a “Roaring Cajun” crawfish boil. Embrace New Orleans sounds from Kipori Woods at 7 p.m. Festive attire is optional, but beer sipping is encouraged.
Learn more happeningnext.com.
Mardi Gras Festival
Denver, CO
February 26, 2022
This all-night affair is for the partygoers and dancers expecting to immerse themselves in a sea of gold, purple and green while listening to DJs spin hip-hop and pop hits. Envision Mardi Gras staples such as aerialists, voodoo dolls, face painters and tarot-card readers all coming together under one roof at the Exdo event center.
Learn more eventbrite.com.
Mardi Gras 4Paws
Frisco, CO
February 26, 2022
Paws for a cause. Hope For Animals - Clear Creek Rescue collabs with the Town of Frisco to host a twist on the traditional Mardi Gras festivities. Anticipate a colorful pet parade with a canine costume contest winner. Meanwhile, sightseers and participants can partake in “Yappy hour” complete with bottled “Doggie beer” for your pooch. All ticket proceeds benefit pets at Hope For Animals - Clear Creek Rescue.
Learn more townoffrisco.com.
Apres-Ski Party
Keystone, CO
March 1, 2022
Bundle and bead up for traditional Fat Tuesday at the base of Keystone Ski Resort. Hit the slopes in the morning then wear your dancing shoes, or ski boots, to get groovy with live music from The Nacho Men. Don’t forget to dress to impress: the mountaineer with the best Mardi Gras costume takes home a cash prize.
Learn more keystonefestivals.com.
Mardi Gras Celebration
Snowmass, CO
March 1, 2022
Gather in Snowmass for a full day of festivities. Start the day off with the infamous Mother of Ascensions uphill race. The course starts in Snowmass Base Village on Fanny Hill then climbs 2,073 feet to High Alpine Marketplace. There are no excuses this year because ascenders can complete the course any time from February 21 to March 1.
Throughout the day, snack on Cajun food and drink specials in the village. At 3 p.m. ski down to Base Village for a bead toss and the Bud-Light HIFI Concert, featuring The Dip.
End the Mardi Gras bash with a bang by gazing at the Snowmass firework spectacle around 9 p.m.
Learn more gosnowmass.com.
Mardi Gras Parade
Crested Butte, CO
March 1, 2022
Waltz down Elk Avenue in downtown Crested Butte. Explore your Mardi Gras passion and creativity by registering a float in the parade on The Chamber’s website. Bystanders may watch the slew of glittering Mardi Gras fanfare and their wacky floats travel through the quaint mountain town. Don’t worry if you forget your costume, the local visitor’s center will sell beads and masks.
Learn more travelcrestedbutte.com.
Mardi Gras Bash
Paonia, CO
March 2, 2022
Relish all things Mardi Gras at Edesia Warehouse including live music, contests and daiquiris. This warehouse event even offers a kid’s zone. Be sure to throw on your Mardi Gras get-up because inspirited costumes are encouraged. Most importantly, arrive hungry. Cajun food staples such as jambalaya, red beans, po-boys and king cake will be at the ready. A portion of profits will go to The Learning Council, an organization supporting learning and education for all.
Learn more thelearningcouncil.org.