Mardi Gras 2011 in Houston: Parades, Parties, Music and Gumbo

Sure, two of the biggest events in Houston will meet when Mardi Gras meets the Houston Rodeo and Livestock Show. But there are plenty more events that may be well kept city secrets and just as fun as Mardi Gras Galveston or the Houston Rodeo, and not as hard to get to.

The University of Houston will be celebrating Mardi Gras a little early, with this celebration of the Mardi Gras tradition and as taste of New Orleans. Visit the UH Downtown Academic Building Room A300 on Feb. 10, 2011 from 5-7 pm for music, food, and door prizes, plus a cash bar.

Family friendly Mardi Gras Parade

For family fun take a walk on the Kemah Boardwalk on Sunday, March 6, 2011, 12 Noon; when it is hosts to the 10th Annual Krewes into Kemah Street Parade & Carnival at the Kemah Lighthouse District. This parade is hosts to vehicles, bikes and even a children's walking parade that is sure to entertain. When the parade is done, stick around for more fun on the boardwalk with rides, attractions, games and dining.

A taste of New Orleans in Houston

For a "taste of New Orleans" throughout Mardi Gras visit Zimm's Little Deck and indulge in po' boys (or rich ones), spicy Gumbo and if the weather is nice play a game of petanque.

Many other restaurants will be hosting Mardi Gras entertainment, music and dining to celebrate the season so why not check out some place you love or someplace new to see what you can do?

Mardi Gras Music in Houston

Mardi Gras would not be complete without music and Houston offers you several opportunities to get up and dance or sit back and relax listening to jazz or zydeco.

Visit the House of Blues on Tuesday March 8, 2011 for Fat Tuesday with Cowboy Mouth and Dash Rip Rock. Doors open at 7:00 pm and the show begins at 8:00 pm. Concert prices are: $15.00 - 4 Pack- General Admission-Advance; $20.00 - General Admission- Advance; $25.00 - Day of Show-General Admission; $25.00 - Upper Balcony Seating; $30.00 - Lower Balcony Seating and this concert is open to all ages. The House of Blues Houston is located at 1204 Caroline Street, Houston, TX 77002. Call (888) 402-5837 or visit online to purchase your tickets.

For Zydeco music, consider these Houston area restaurants, pubs and grills as each one of them offers several performances throughout the Mardi Gras season; and some pretty good food and drink too!

Feb. 27 The Big Easy (5731 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX) 8pm - 12am Lil' Porter & the Zydeco Hustlers

March 3 Ragin Cajun (16100 Kensington Dr., Sugar Land, TX) 6:30pm - 9:30pm Zydeco Dots

March 5 Molly Malone's Pub (7824 Louetta Road, Spring, TX) 9pm - 1am LT & the Zydeco MOB

The Shakespeare Pub (14129 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX) 9:30pm Lady D & The Zydeco Tornados

Mardi Gras Gumbo

If you love great gumbo then make some time to visit the Bon Temps Gumbo Cook Off & Carnival (Humble Civic Center, 8233 Will Clayton Parkway, Humble, TX) on March 5, 2011 12pm - 10pm. With a petting zoo, bounce house and games for the children live music, Gumbo and Bingo there is sure to be something there for everyone.

You don't have to rodeo or go to the beach to have a good time this Mardi Gras in Houston.

Planning on celebrating at home? Get your party started with these Authentic Mardi Gras Recipes.

Sources:

University of Houston Special Events Calendar

Visit Bay Area Houston

House of Blues

Zydeco Events

KHOU