DEADWOOD, S.D. — Deadwood is inviting visitors to celebrate Mardi Gras this weekend, for a full weekend of festivities that blend classic New Orleans flair with the town’s own unique style.
Jesse Allen of the Deadwood Chamber of Commerce said the celebration will take place Friday and Saturday and is designed to offer something for everyone, whether they are celebrating Valentine’s Day, gathering with friends or simply looking for a fun winter getaway.
Festivities begin Friday night with a Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball at Deadwood Mountain Grand. Jesse said the event will feature performances by Sensational Cabaret, music from DJ Frost and a variety of entertainers, including fire dancers, stilt walkers and aerialists. Tarot card readings will also be available throughout the evening.
A best dressed contest will be held during the masquerade ball, with participants eligible to win up to two hundred and fifty dollars. Jesse said the event encourages guests to fully embrace the masquerade theme with costumes and masks.
The masquerade ball carries a ten dollar cover charge, and the event begins at seven p.m., with tickets available at the door.
In addition to the masquerade ball, Deadwood will host a Mardi Gras themed cocktail crawl on both Friday and Saturday. Jesse said approximately twenty local businesses are expected to participate, offering Cajun inspired specialty drinks for purchase throughout the weekend.
Saturday’s events continue with the annual Cajun Cookoff, which Jesse described as a long standing Mardi Gras tradition in Deadwood. The cookoff runs from two to four p.m. and includes free samples of Cajun themed dishes from roughly fifteen to sixteen participating businesses.
The weekend wraps up Saturday night with a lighted Mardi Gras parade traveling up Main Street. Jesse said the parade begins at seven p.m. and will feature beads and traditional Mardi Gras flair.
Jesse encouraged visitors to make a full weekend of the celebration by booking a hotel room and taking part in multiple events. He said all festivities are designed to create a lively, welcoming atmosphere during the winter season in Deadwood.
