Make it to Mardi Gras in Lake Charles

I’m celebrating Mardi Gras this year, but I won’t be lunging for beads anywhere near Bourbon Street. I’ll be in Lake Charles at the second largest celebration in Louisiana at the SWLA Mardi Gras, which runs from February 8-13.

I’ll tour the world’s largest Mardi Gras costume display, attend the Royal Gala and down bowls of spicy gumbo and slices of king cake at the world’s longest tailgate party.

This family-friendly event includes a Children’s Day, Krewe of Barkus Parade for dogs and the Iowa Chicken Run, where attendees chase chickens to the syncopated beat of zydeco music.

— Jan Schroder, Girl on the Go