2 days of Cajun food & good times at the 2023 Tucson Mardi Gras Festival


March 6, 2023
By Matt Sterner

"From the Big Easy to the Old Pueblo."

Just when you thought all of the Mardi Gras festivities were over and done with for 2023, think again because the good times are still rollin’ here in Tucson.

Once again, the creative minds behind The Slaughterhouse are hosting the third annual Mardi Gras Festival from 11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 11, and then from noon – 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 12 for Family Festival Day.

Crawfish Boil (Photo by Dinielle De Veyra)

“Due to actual Mardi Gras falling so early in February for 2023, we have made the decision to move this event to March,” they released in a press release. “We know Tucsonan’s don’t like to be outside when it’s cold — so we will be celebrating when it’s a little warmer and the crawfish are bigger.”

Over at 1102 W. Grant Rd., different experiences will be available like a Bourbon Street Balcony Experience, Cajun food, specialty drinks, FireTruck Brewing Company will be serving beers, live Cajun and Zydeco music, axe throwing, a New Orleans Mausoleum tour, themed vendors, and parades that resemble those that take to the streets of New Orleans.

Bourbon Street Balcony Experience (Photo courtesy of Tucson Mardi Gras)

“The team behind Tucson Mardi Gras wants to invite everyone in the great city of Tucson to come out and experience a little bit of what NOLA and the real Mardi Gras has to offer,” stated Tucson Mardi Gras. “The event benefits local charities and First Responders.”

Saturday’s Festival is suggested for ages 18 years old and up, but kids are allowed with parental discretion. Sunday’s Family Festival Day is more family oriented with a couple more kid-friendly activities available like jumping castles and face painting (additional fees for activities required).

Tucson Mardi Gras Festival Tickets

It’s free to attend the Tucson Mardi Gras Festival but there are some risks. If event capacity is reached, “upgrade ticket holders and Guaranteed Entry ticket holders will be given priority entrance.”

So, if you’d like to guarantee entry, they suggest you pre-purchase any of the ticket options they’ve got available online.

And, if you’re getting a little nervous, perhaps shakin’ in your boots because the event is operated by the same folks behind The Slaughterhouse, don’t fret because this event is “100% No-Scare.” The haunted houses will not be open in any capacity during the weekend.

The Tucson Mardi Gras Festival is located at 1102 W. Grant Rd. For more information and to purchase tickets visit tucsonmardigras.com.

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