San Diego is home to the West Coast’s largest Fat Tuesday celebrations. We’ve rounded up where you can catch the Mardi Gras party.
San Diego Mardi Gras Parade & Celebration
Feb. 17. San Diego’s famous Mardi Gras celebration takes over the Gaslamp Quarter with five stages, more than 20 DJs and performers, the Fat Tuesday Parade and food and drink specials at more than 20 Gaslamp venues. General admission tickets are priced at $40, and an elevated VIP experience brings more perks to the party for $120. Tickets available online and at Rockin’ Baja Lobster, 301 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter. sdmardigras.com
Hillcrest Fat Tuesday
Feb. 17. Hillcrest is not a neighborhood to miss out on the party. The Fat Tuesday celebration is back in Hillcrest complete with masks, beads, dance party, Cajun cuisine, performances, and exclusive VIP area with private bar and DJ’s. The carnival extends along University Ave., between First and Fourth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.3330. mosuniverse.com
Hotel del Coronado’s Mardi Gras at Sun Deck
Feb. 12-17. Celebrate Mardi Gras with a New Orleans-inspired menu, cocktails and beads on Hotel del Coronado’s Sun Deck. A zydeco band will play Saturday and Sunday while diners enjoy highlights such as beignets, creole chicken sandwich, big momma’s gumbo and fried catfish po’ boys, and drinks like the cajun lemonade, French 75 or “Storm of the Century.” 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6611. hoteldel.com
Mardi Gras 5K, 10K, & 15K
Feb. 17. Celebrate Fat Tuesday and justify some indulgence with exercise. It’s a parade for all to enjoy, so come dressed in colorful costumes, masks and have a ball. The waterfront race offers beautiful views in all directions. Runners cross the finish line into Mardi Gras village where they’ll enjoy New Orleans cuisine. Quivira Ct., Mission Bay, 619.491.0677. active.com