Voodoo Tiki Bar & Lounge is once again Mardi Gras Central with a five day-long Carnival event leading up to Fat Tuesday. On Fri., Feb. 20, Voodoo kicks off the weekend with their Carnival Parade and Opening Ceremony. The Dixieland Band will be playing some traditional brass fare while party-goers get together for an informal happy hour and parade down the Avondale bar strip starting at 7:30 p.m., picking up people and drinks as they go. Jazzfest at Voodoo starts at 7 p.m. on Saturday. The all-night version of Voodoo’s Winter Jazz Series features a three-set collaboration of local jazz artists; think of it as an awesome jam-fest for only $5. After two days of partying, Voodoo slows things down a bit on Sunday with a resurrection of Marie Laveau’s Pajama Brunch, which features Chicory coffee, bloody Marys, and all the beignets you can eat. Seating is from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., on a first-come, first-serve basis. On Monday at 7:30 p.m., a benefit for the St. Bernard Project will help New Orleanians still in need after Katrina. Local artists including Alex Cox, Diana Lauderdale, John Pundt, and Erin Eckman will have works on display and for sale. Entertainment from Bizarro Burlesque girls and food and drink specials will be provided throughout the evening, and a variety of Avondale vendors are donating gift certificates and prizes to be auctioned off. To end the week of celebrations, Voodoo will have a Fat Tuesday Bash on the big day. The night of debauchery begins at 4 p.m. with happy hour, followed by a $3 door charge starting at 7:30 p.m. Live music will be provided by the Dixieland Band, followed by Quiana Parler & Friends. Specialty New Orleans cuisine will be served, and drink specials will be flowing all night long (hurricanes, anyone?). And let’s not forget the beads. Lots and lots of beads. —Reina Gascon-Lopez Feb. 20-24. (843) 412-8948, www.voodootikibar.com. Voodoo Tiki Bar and Lounge, 15 Magnolia Road.
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