By Madeline McKenzie Seattle Times staff
Mardi Gras, French for “Fat Tuesday,” is Tuesday, Feb. 28. It’s based on traditions of feasting and drinking before fasting obligations of the religious season of Lent start March 1, though fortunately, Lenten observance isn’t required and doesn’t usually follow the party night for most revelers.
New Orleans and other places host big Mardi Gras carnivals and parades, but here in the Northwest, Mardi Gras is mostly celebrated with parties and music at clubs and other entertainment spots, including these events;
1. Columbia City Beatwalk hosts Fat Tuesday at several venues from 6 to 11 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28. The evening begins with a second-line parade, a New Orleans tradition with a brass band “main line” leading a “second line” of anyone who wants to join in walking or dancing along, starting at 6 p.m. at Lottie’s Lounge; gathering to join in the parade starts at 5 p.m. Events around Columbia City include music by Butterflies of Death, The Ten Man Brass Band, Sousapalooza, Honk! All Stars, 7 p.m. at the Columbia City Theatre, $5; music of New Orleans, 6 to 9 p.m. at the Royal Room; and musical performances at Island Soul Rum Bar & Soul Shack, The Hummingbird Saloon, Rumba Notes Lounge, Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria and Lottie’s Lounge.