By Gini Strobel
Outside of Atlanta, New Orleans is easily one of my favorite cities. The delicious seafood, the awesome bands and venues, the lack of open container laws, the culture, and art; I could go on for hours. As we all know, one of New Orleans’ biggest attractions is Mardi Gras. If you’ve never been then be sure to add this experience to your bucket list. It’s just too fun! If you’re like me, a trip is out of the question right now. The new year is just kicking off and work is busy. However, right in our backyard, Atkins Park in Smyrna is pulling out all the stops with its 2nd Annual Oyster Mardi Gras Fest! The festival is 5 days long and includes the key Mardi Gras components: beads, booze, bands, and babes (well, I added the babes part because I’m sure they’ll be there).
Naturally, this awesome Festival will offer amazing oyster and drink specials including the famous Hurricanes and Abita Beer, a New Orleans brunch on Sunday, tons of live music, a family themed day on Monday, and a mask party on Fat Tuesday! They’ll even crown a Mardi Gras King and Queen.
Here is the Band & Event lineup:
Friday, February 8th
11:00pm Dixie Duncan
Saturday, February 9th
Doors open at 11:00am and the bands begin at 1:00pm on the outdoor stage, but don’t worry about the weather because the main stage will be in a heated tent!
1:00pm Joe Garner & Company
3:30pm Chris Stalcup & The Grange
6:00pm Brandy Brothers
8:30pm Quail Dogs
10:30pm Come to the inside stage for Man Made
Sunday, February 10th
“Cure-all” New Orleans style hangover brunch from 11:00am – 2:00pm
Live music all day long
12:00pm Will Scruggs Trio
3:00pm Soulhound
6:00pm Squirrelheads
10:30pm Atkins Park Sunday Funday Band
Monday, February 11th Lundi Gras
Family-friendly celebration with chef prepared New Orleans favorites
Entertainment for kids and adults including face painting, mask decorating
5:30pm GrassRoots
Tuesday, February 12th Mardi Gras
Mask Party! Bring your own mask or buy one at the door for $5.00. Mardi Gras fanfare, complete with beads, beer and partying
-Proceeds go to Mustard Seed Communities
9:30pm Radiolucent – A must see!
You’ll need to purchase tickets for Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday, but don’t worry, advance tickets are so affordable! $5.00 in advance/ $10.00 at the door.
