Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday, includes the practice of eating rich foods and having a grand time. With that being said, you’ve got some options if you’re planning on letting the good times roll this year on Tuesday, March 4.
Tucson may not be as wild as Bourbon Street, but there are a few fun events to attend here in town.
Forty Niner Country Club
12000 E. Tanque Verde Rd.
From 10:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4, the Country Club is serving Mardi Gras specials, including a limited-time cocktail.
“We’re bringing the flavors of New Orleans straight to your plate! Savor the taste of our mouthwatering Shrimp Po Boy — crispy fried shrimp, fresh veggies, and a tangy remoulade sauce nestled in a French roll. Or, warm your soul with a bowl of our hearty Gumbo, packed with chicken, Andouille sausage, and all the Cajun spices you crave!”
The Gaslight Music Hall in Oro Valley
13005 N. Oracle Rd.
The music hall is hosting a Mardi Gras concert with the Wildcat Jazz Band at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4.
“With their unique blend of impeccable musicianship, traditional music, and slapstick humor, Wildcat Jazz has been planting smiles on faces since 2004. Founded by New Christy Minstrels veteran Rob Wright and his roster of world-class musicians, Wildcat Jazz has gained global recognition with their free-wheeling mix of well-known jazz favorites, tongue-in-cheek originals, and Dixieland staples.”
Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort
5501 N. Hacienda Del Sol Rd.
“Celebrate Mardi Gras with classic New Orleans cuisine.”
Heads up! This event is happening earlier on Sunday, March 2. Enjoy the flavors and lively spirit of the Big Easy in a colorful, party-filled atmosphere. Pete Swan’s Quartet will take you on a musical journey through the heart of New Orleans, filling the night with the soulful sounds of jazz.
Seats at the table are $65 for adults, $30 for kids 6 – 12-year-olds, and free for anyone younger. Call (520) 529.3500 to make your reservation today.
Hotel Congress
311 E. Congress St.
The historic hotel is hosting a Mardi Gras party with Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. from 5 – 10 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4.
- VIP Reserved Seating: $50 + fees
- General Admission: Advance: $20 | Day of Show: $25 + fees
“It’s almost a curse being the son of a famous musician, especially when your daddy is the legendary Buckwheat Zydeco, who elevated Zydeco to worldwide prominence. If you don’t measure up, there will be plenty of folks to cut you down to size. Sir Reginald Dural, understands that but embraced the challenge anyway by assuming the stage name of Buckwheat Zydeco, Jr.”
Kingfisher
2564 E. Grant Rd.
The Parish
6453 N. Oracle Rd.
“Our Mardi Gras festival is back and better than ever!”
The Parish will be featuring all-time favorites, a crawfish boil, an alligator roast, and Cajun sampler plates with gumbo, crawfish etouffee, red beans ‘n rice! Also, King Cake, Hurricanes, and live music on Fat Tuesday, March 4 beginning at 1 p.m.
More Details:
- $15 cover charge
- First come, first served — no pre-sale or reservations
- Food and drink sold separately
- Parking is VERY LIMITED. They strongly suggest using a rideshare service to and from the event
- 21 and over event unless accompanied by a parent and no later than 9 p.m.
- Children 12 and under get in for free
- No immediate re-entry if you leave the festival
Live Music Lineup:
- 1:30 p.m. – Bryan Dean Trio
- 2 p.m . – Barnaby and the Butcher
- 3:30 p.m. – Tiny House of Funk
- 4:30 p.m. – Big Sounds of Pleasure
- 5 p.m. – Barnaby and the Butcher
- 7:30 p.m. – In Tha Zone
The Views Restaurant
1555 E. Rancho Vistoso Blvd.
Food specials starting at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4!
Article written by:
Matt Sterner
More about MattAt a very young age, Matt Sterner was gifted with the artistic ability to masterfully roll a burrito to the highest of standards, but the wrapped medley of delicious innards wasn’t his first love. Matt’s first true love was a combination of reading, writing, and creating. He grew up reading comics, the ingredients list of his shampoo and conditioner bottles, choose-your-own-adventure books, and the Scrabble dictionary — something he found useful when challenging his grandmother to a game.
He attended college at New Mexico State University and graduated with a degree in Digital Filmmaking. One of his favorite classes was screenwriting because he became responsible for the story’s birth before it came to life on-screen. After school, Matt took on numerous positions at a local television station in Tucson. From dealing out stories about heartbreak to producing “fluffier” content for a lifestyle broadcast, he learned what it takes to adapt to the many emotions the world of media can stir. Since 2017, Matt has dabbled in the culinary world of Tucson as well as San Diego, California from time to time.
If you’re in the mood for strange stories, head over to his pride and joy, wonkytimes.com. And in case you’re curious — yes, after all of this time, he still manages to roll a killer burrito.
