ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) – Fat Tuesday is coming up in less than a week. Get ready to throw on some beads and celebrate Mardi Gras. This week, Asheville has several events to get you in the festive spirit. Find out what is happening now with 828newsNOW Events.
The annual Asheville Mardi Gras parade will roll through downtown’s South Slope neighborhood at 3:05 p.m. Sunday, March 2.
Asheville is still reeling from Tropical Storm Helene and its aftermath, and the nonprofit wants to present its annual gift to the city — a parade that celebrates the community’s vibrant creativity, and this year, its strength and resilience.
King Tom Good Heart Marshall and Queen Jill Bielewski will lead the revelry and zany family-friendly fun.
All are welcome, so don your purple and gold duds, bling, beads and crowns and head to the South Slope.
This year, a procession will follow the parade rather than the traditional ball. The first stop is Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ at 5:30 p.m. Then, it’s on to Antidote Chemist Spirits at 7 p.m. The procession will finish at Banks Ave. Bar from 8-10 p.m.
CLICK HERE to learn more about the Asheville Mardi Gras celebration.
Here are five other events you can attend in Western North Carolina for the weekend of Feb. 28 – March 2.
Bayou Diesel Performance – Asheville performing artist Bayou Diesel, a member of the Asheville Cajun-Zydeco community, is scheduled for a rare appearance at Cork and Keg Bar. In celebration of Mardi Gras, the musician will play the venue from 8 – 10 p.m. on Saturday, Mar. 1 at 86 Patton Avenue. Tickets will be available at the door starting at 7 p.m.
Cajun Creole Cooking Class – If you were hoping to whip up Cajun-style food for Mardi Gras, learn how to do it the right way with this event in Candler. The night class is scheduled for 6 – 9 p.m. on Saturday, Mar. 1 at The Farm at 215 Justice Ridge Road.
Wearable Art Class – You t-shirt is your canvas at this art-filled evening. For the unbeatable price of free, bring a friend to paint on whatever wearable item you wish. This creative experience is to be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 28 at the Center for Spiritual Living at 2 Science of Mind Way.
‘Murder in the Studio’ Play – One of Agatha Christy’s murder mystery novels, the Asheville Community Theater will bring the classic whodunnit to the stage this weekend. Showings are scheduled all weekend long at 35 E Walnut Street. Tickets are available now online.
The Misfit Improv Comedy Show – Ready to giggle? The Mistfit Improv & Acting School promises hilarity at their show this weekend. Join the fun at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 28 at the North Carolina Stage Company at 15 Stage Lane.
Still not sure what to do this weekend? There are many more events to choose from. Click here to find out what else is happening in the area.