JAN 31
MARDI GRAS BALL
The Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center will also host the Cajun Mardi Gras Ball from 7-11 p.m. on Jan 31. You’ll be able to indulge in a variety of Creole- and Cajun-flavored hors d’oeuvres, from sweet to spicy and everything in between. And no ball – especially a Mardi Gras ball – would be complete without lively music. Nash Hernandez Orchestra and Jean-Pierre & the Zydeco Angels will make sure that the night is a memorable one. Tickets are available here.
FEB. 1
Let’s hope you got a good night’s sleep on Jan 31, because Feb. 1 is jam-packed with all kinds of fun activities and events.
GUMBO COOK-OFF
Get your day cooking as the inaugural Gumbo cook off begins at 8 a.m. along Water and Pine streets in downtown Bastrop. Judging starts at noon with entrants vying for cash awards, trophies and bragging rights. Attendees at the event can purchase a tasting wrist band for $10 and vote for the People’s Choice Award for best gumbo. The event is organized by and benefits the nonprofit Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration.
SALUTE TO FRED’S LOUNGE
There’s no need to drive to Mamou, Louisiana, to honor Fred’s Lounge, the town’s legendary bar. Gracie’s in downtown Bastrop will host the Salute to Fred’s Lounge, featuring Cajun vibes and lively music, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The free event will be broadcast on KVPI-AM Radio, so arrive early for all the fun.
MARDI GRAS PARADE
For many, Mardi Gras parades are the best part of the festivities. Featuring colorful costumes and creatively designed floats, the Mardi Gras Parade entrants will partake in the historic tradition of tossing throws (necklaces), along with candy, cups and more. The family-friendly procession kicks off at 10 a.m. in downtown Bastrop. The Evangeline Parish Tourist Commission will be on hand with stories and traditions to share.
MUSIC MAIN STAGE
The Mardi Gras celebration will go full-blown Cajun and Zydeco with a music lineup sure to get you dancing. The Music Main Stage, held at Main and Pine streets, kicks off free concerts at 10:30 a.m. with Steve Riley & The Mamou Playboys, Jean-Pierre & The Zydeco Angels, Leroy Thomas & The Zydeco Roadrunners, and Jamie Bergeron & The Kickin’ Cajuns. Find the full music schedule here.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN
The festival is a family-friendly celebration designed to delight guests of all ages. Little ones will love the excitement of face painting, bounce houses, and the ever-popular Children's Chicken Chase—a joyful event where fun knows no bounds! Families can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, explore the rich cultural heritage of Cajun traditions, and enjoy interactive music and lessons on Cajun music history. It’s an unforgettable day of community, connection, and celebration for everyone to enjoy! Full children’s activities and schedule are found here.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO
Embark on a one-of-a-kind musical adventure with the "Musical Instrument Petting Zoo"! Making its way from Louisiana to Bastrop, this traveling attraction offers a hands-on, immersive experience into the world of Cajun and Zydeco music. Explore a delightful array of instruments, from accordions and fiddles to percussion and strings, with opportunities for both seasoned music lovers and curious novices to play and learn. Kids will especially enjoy the playful toy versions of these traditional instruments, making it a fun and educational journey for all ages.
FOOD AND DRINK
A number of Bastrop establishments will be featuring a scrumptious selection of Cajun and Creole specials in honor of the Mardi Gras celebration. Restaurants, bars, breweries, tasting lounges, bakeries and food vendors will dazzle you with everything from beignets, etouffee and muffulettas to King cake cupcakes and cheesecake, as well as Mardi Gras-style specialty drinks.
STAY WITH US
Enjoying all of the Mardi Gras festivities Texas-style means you’ll need a place to rest your head, and Bastrop has numerous lodging options. From lake and RV parks to inns and luxury resorts, you’ll find the ideal spot to make this a perfect weekend. So make your plans, pack your bags and get ready to celebrate at Bastrop’s extravaganza!
