What’s happening
The events will be centered around Courir de Mardi Gras, which translates to "Fat Tuesday Run" in French. The tradition started in medieval France, was brought to rural Louisiana by French settlers and has evolved over the centuries, blending with local Cajun culture to become a festive, communal celebration marked by costumed processions, music, and communal revelry leading up to Mardi Gras, according to Bastrop Mardi Gras officials.
“This second annual cultural exchange event is a joyous celebration of Cajun culture, highlighting the distinctive Courir de Mardi Gras customs in partnership with Evangeline Parish, Louisiana,” according to a news release from Visit Bastrop.
Cajun Mardi Gras Ball
According to the news release, guests can enjoy an evening of lively music, Cajun appetizers, masquerade fun and a cash bar. Musicians will include The Nash Hernandez Orchestra, and Jean-Pierre and the Zydeco Angels. Per the news release, guests can dress in cocktail, formal or “Texas Formal" attire, including sports coats with jeans, and optional masquerade masks.
- Jan. 31, 7-11 p.m.
- $75 (admission)
- Bastrop Convention and Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut St., Bastrop
The family-friendly parade will feature colorful floats, horses and more, including Evangeline Parish Courir de Mardi Gras delegates and residents wearing traditional costumes.
- Feb. 1, 10 a.m.
- Free
- Downtown Bastrop along Main Street
Benefiting the Bastrop Juneteenth Parade and Celebration, the event will allow attendees a chance to taste gumbo from each contestant and vote for their favorites.
- Feb. 1, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
- $10 (admission and tasting)
- Downtown Bastrop at Water and Pine Streets
Live music will be on the main stage downtown with acts including DJ T-Rob, Jean-Pierre & the Zydeco Angels, Leroy Thomas & The Zydeco Roadrunners, Steve Riley & The Mamou Playboys, and Jamie Bergeron & The Kickin’ Cajuns.
- Feb. 1, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Free
- Downtown Bastrop, Pine and Main Streets
Five runs divided between children ages 3-12 will be offered. Per the website, the tradition is rooted in rural Cajun communities in Louisiana, where participants engaged in the chase and would contribute their caught chickens to a communal gumbo, symbolizing the spirit of sharing and coming together to create a festive and flavorful celebration dish.
- Feb. 1, 1 p.m.
- Free
- Ascension Catholic Church, 804 Pine St., Bastrop
The Louisiana Folkroots’ Music Instrument Petting Zoo offers an immersive musical experience for children using authentic and toy percussion, string, and accordion instruments used in the traditional styles of Louisiana Cajun and Zydeco.
- Feb. 1, noon-3 p.m.
- Free
- Bastrop Public Library, 1100 Church St., Bastrop
Steve Riley and his two sons, Burke and Dolsy Riley, will play Cajun music and share stories.
- Feb. 1 2:30-3:15 p.m.
- Free
- Ascension Catholic Church, 804 Pine St., Bastrop
