As a Louisiana-born, Nashville-raised girl, Mardi Gras will always have my heart. While we may not close schools or flood the streets with parades like New Orleans, Nashville still brings plenty of Fat Tuesday energy. From festive parties and themed menus to can’t-miss events around the city, here’s your guide to celebrating Mardi Gras 2026 in Nashville.
Frozen King Cake Cocktail at Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse (Feb. 1–28)
Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse is celebrating Mardi Gras all month long with a Frozen King Cake cocktail. Topped with colorful sprinkles and a baby, it’s a playful, boozy nod to Carnival season and an easy way to get in the Fat Tuesday spirit anytime this month!
The Gumbo Bros x Cledis Swamp Burger (Feb. 1–28)
Mardi Gras month gets a savory spotlight with a collaboration between The Gumbo Bros and Cledis. Available throughout Feb., the Swamp Burger features a double-grilled onion burger, seasoned with Cajun spices, pepper jack cheese, alligator sausage, and a spicy remoulade.
Carnival Season Brunch at Ruby Sunshine (Through Feb. 24)
Ruby Sunshine brings a taste of New Orleans to Nashville with a limited-time Carnival brunch. Think King Cake Beignets with almond cheesecake and Mardi Gras sugar, Ooh-Bae Stuffed French Toast with ube cheesecake (one of my favorites!) and passion fruit popping boba, and the Krewe-Berry Margarita, a playful tequila-and-blueberry cocktail. It’s the perfect way to kick off Mardi Gras season in Music City.
Mardi Gras Weekend at The Gumbo Bros (Feb. 13–17)
The Gumbo Bros bring the spirit of Carnival back to Music City with a multi-day Mardi Gras celebration leading up to Fat Tuesday. Guests can expect Cajun favorites, authentic king cake slices brought in from New Orleans, and festive cocktails including King Cake Milk Punch, Hurricanes, and boozy Jell-O shots. For those celebrating at home, the Mardi Gras Party Pack offers a FatBelly Pretzel King Cake and a gallon of Chicken & Sausage Gumbo for pickup.
Mardi Gras in the Hall at Assembly Food Hall (Feb. 15)
Assembly Food Hall brings the spirit of New Orleans to downtown Nashville with a free, family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration. Expect live brass music, face painters, balloon artists, festive food from hall eateries, and drink specials throughout the afternoon. Grab your krewe, throw on some beads, and celebrate Big Easy–style in the heart of Music City.
Fat Tuesday Celebration at Rudy’s Jazz Room (Feb. 17)
Celebrate Fat Tuesday in true New Orleans style at Rudy’s Jazz Room with The Crescent City Hoodoo All-Stars. Enjoy Mardi Gras drink specials and authentic cuisine, from jambalaya and chicken-andouille shrimp gumbo to red beans and rice, King Cake, and beignets. More information is here.
