Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday," reflecting the practice of the last night of overindulgence in eating, drinking, and revelry before the ritual Lenten sacrifices and fasting of the Lenten season. Bellevue delights in the traditional colors of Mardi Gras which are purple, green, and gold, representing justice, faith, and power. Everything from masks to beads and cakes will bear these colors.

“King” cakes represent the gifts brought by the Magi. The tradition of sweet treats and gifts dates back to the Middle Ages, but the form has changed over time. Today, King Cake is typically a glazed or frosted circular, often braided cake decorated Mardi Gras colors. A brioche dough or even cinnamon rolls are often used.

The baked goods including King Cakes often adorned with colorful tinted sugars and Mardi Gras beads, King Cake (or its French counterpart, galette des Rois) is a classic tradition marking the period of indulgence that comes before Lent. If you're the lucky guest who gets a slice embedded with a symbolic trinket, you're crowned royalty for a day!

We have selected some suggestions and features where Carnaval, Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday is celebrated in full fashion around Bellevue. 


 

 

 

 

 

Where Ya At Matt - Food Truck, rotating locations in Bellevue and Seattle. Owner and NOLA native, Matthew Lewis, grew up preparing traditional Creole dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, and etouffee. Today Matthew brings New Orleans soul food to the streets.

 

 

Chef Drew Flanders, who spent many years in New Orleans, brings Mardi Gras to life at Whisk Bellevue. Enjoy a hands-on cooking class that captures the legendary Cajun and Creole flavors, even a traditional Sazerac cocktail! Rollup your sleeves and get busy. 

 

 

 

 

 

The French Bakery has the celebrated sweets you are looking for.
 

 

 

 

 

 

Try some chicory coffee, a NOLA tradition right here in Bellevue at Café Ladro, Mercury Coffee, and Third Culture Coffee.  

Other Activities

You can also put on your beads and head out for a fun run. Join the 2021 Mardi Gras Virtual 5k Run and Walk between now and February 28th.

Kids want to be part of the festivities, too, so check out Popcorn – Play, Party, and Cook. Their Mardi Gras Camp is an option for kids five and older.