Mardi Gras is approaching, and in just a few short weeks, the celebrations will kick off in Tampa Bay and around the country!
If you’re local to the Tampa area and aren’t sure where or how to celebrate Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday, you’re in luck. We’re listing the local Mardi Gras events you should attend this year.
<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>Check them out!
Mardi Gras Events in Tampa
Busch Gardens Mardi Gras
- Dates: January 24-March 1, 2026 (select dates)
Head on over to Busch Gardens Tampa for a Mardi Gras event like no other in the bay!
Inspired by the vibrant colors and delectable flavors of New Orleans’ biggest celebration, Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will transport guests to a festive realm of bayou-inspired fanfare.
Enjoy Cajun-inspired culinary delights, a lively parade with new festive characters, multicolored beads, an authentic brass band playing live, and spirited entertainment offerings for the entire family.
Mardi Gras is included with daily park admission, Annual Pass, or Fun Cards.
MARDI GRAS NOLA NITE AT TIBBY'S
- Dates: January 16-February 17, 2026
Celebrate Mardi Gras with different events at Tibby's New Orleans Kitchen in Brandon!
Nola DJ Nite: February 13, 2026, 6 p.m.-10 p.m.
Dueling Pianos Brunch: February 15, 2026, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Fat Tuesday: February 17, 5 p.m.-10 p.m.
Brunch on Bourbon: Every Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Mardi Gras Brunch
- Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Head to Tubby's New Orleans Kitchen for live music and a Cajun-style brunch featuring Jambalaya, Eggs Benedict, Beignets, and Gumbo! Note: Eventbrite tickets are NOT restaurant reservations. Reserve your table at tibbys.com/reservations.
Mardi Gras in Grand Central District
- Date: Saturday, February 7, 12 p.m.-5 p.m.
Enjoy a Mardi Gras celebration complete with a Pistil House Crawfish Boil!
Official Mardi Gras Bar Crawl St. Pete
- Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026, 4 p.m.
Included in your ticket is a souvenir Mardi Gras Beer Koozie, beads, dancing, DJs and live music, exclusive Mardi Gras Drink Specials, and no cover charges!
Open House-Mardi Gras in Tampa
- Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Get ready to celebrate at the Open House with a fun Mardi Gras twist at AdventHealth Well 65+. Guests can indulge in a sweet treat with vibrant vibes, great company, and the festive flair you love about Mardi Gras! This event is free.
Mardi Gras Dunedin Parade & FESTIVAL
- Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 5 p.m.-10 p.m.
Head over to downtown Dunedin for a Mardi Gras Experience! Enjoy beads and a parade featuring colorful floats and dazzling costumes, and endless entertainment as the parade winds through Dunedin’s lively streets!
Mardi Gras Crawfish Boil at Bayboro Brewing
- Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 4 p.m.
Enjoy live music and all you can eat crawfish in the gorgeous, shaded beer garden at Bayboro Brewing! The first drop kicks off at 4 p.m., and each round will take about 45 minutes to an hour. But don’t worry, they've got craft brews to keep you refreshed and live music in the Biergarten to enjoy while you wait.
Heading to Orlando? Be sure to check out How to Have an Epic Date at Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 2026.
Check out more date night fun with 40+ Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Month: Events and MORE