Local Mardis Gras Celebrations

Everybody knows that New Orleans is the epicenter for Mardis Gras when it comes to the annual festivities leading up to "Fat Tuesday." Each year thousands and thousands of people flow into the city to enjoy the parades and costumes, the music and food, the Mardis Gras traditions and the cultural heritage of the region. It is an annual affair for local residents, as well as a vibrant extravaganza for first-time visitors.

Even the most diehard New Orleans Mardis Gras fans, however, can have a First-timer experience at the many local Mardis Gras festivals throughout the region. The Southwest Louisiana (SWLA) Mardis Gras held in Lake Charles, however, is the second largest Mardis Gras in the state after New Orleans. With easy access along Interstate 10, Lake Charles is a two-hour drive from Houston. Lake Charles has a regional airport where Continental Airlines and American Airlines provide connecting service through Houston, making Houston a great alternative to flying into New Orleans.

First-timer Tips

Whether you are a seasoned New Orleans Mardis Gras regular or a First-timer for local Mardis Gras celebrations, your checklist will be pretty much the same.

Event Dates and Times: Lake Charles Mardis Gras has been in full swing since early January. Check out the "Events" page of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau website www.swlamardigras.com/ for dates and times of all events leading up to Fat Tuesday.

Where to Stay: You can book Mardis Gras lodging and packages directly on the Visitors Bureau websites www.swlamardigras.com/ and www.visitlakecharles.org/. Just click on your check-in date and your checkout date to search for deals in the area. Don't forget to check out the "Mardis Gras Getaway for Two" give-away.

Dining: Check out the "Visit Lake Charles" website www.visitlakecharles.org/ "Dining" section to plan your meals and dining along the parade route. It is also very helpful in finding your favorite Cajun and Creole menus that you love. Get recommendations at www.yelp.com for local dining spots. There's even an Alcohol/Tobacco Free Zone for kid-friendly enjoyment, including hot dogs, popcorn and soft drinks.

Other Stuff to Do: Check out the casino action at L'Auberge du Lac, Isle of Capri, or Delta Downs casinos. The Alcohol/Tobacco Free Zone includes a Teen Zone (Live bands, mixed martial arts and skate board demos) and a Wee Zone (Inflatable jumps and face painting).

Mardis Gras First-timers, enjoy!