MARDI GRAS BALL & FREE FESTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! - JAN. 31st & FEB. 1st, 2025
Celebrating the "Courir de Mardi Gras" Folklife of Evangeline Parish, Louisiana
Mardi Gras Ball
Ticketed Event
Downtown Bastrop
Free Music & Festivities
presents
The festival is designed to be a family-friendly affair with activities for all ages. Enliven the experience for your little ones with face painters and bounce houses. Join in the fun of the Mardi Gras Parade—whether by participating or watching from the sidelines. Bring the kids to partake in the Children's Chicken Chase, where excitement knows no bounds. Immerse yourselves in the richness of cultural heritage through interactive music, storytelling sessions, and a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of community and togetherness.
Kids' Activities
FEBRUARY 1st
FREE DOWNTOWN
"Little Courirs Chicken Chase!"
Runs start at 1:00pm, 1 run/age group
Ascension Catholic Church - Fenced Yard
804 Pine Street, Bastrop TX
This event does not occur all day. Only one opportunity to participate.
Runs will begin at 1:00pm.
5 runs divided by age groups (3-4), (5-6), (7-8), (9-10), (11-12)
Experience the thrill of Courir de Mardi Gras with a special treat for our little revelers – the Kid's Chicken Chase! Let your children join in the laughter and excitement as they playfully chase chickens, creating cherished memories in the heart of Cajun tradition. It's a unique and joyous way for kids to be a part of Mardi Gras magic. Don't miss this delightful activity designed just for them!
CONTEXT: The tradition of chasing chickens in the Courir de Mardi Gras traces its roots to rural Cajun communities in Louisiana, where participants engaged in lighthearted and festive pursuits of chickens during the Courir de Mardi Gras. A symbolic and entertaining activity where participants would contribute their caught chickens to a communal gumbo, symbolizing the spirit of sharing and coming together to create a festive and flavorful celebration dish.
Sponsored by
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Join us for this extraordinary activity hosted by Friends of Louisiana Folk Roots!
Louisiana Folk Roots is an organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Louisiana's folk music and traditions. Through various initiatives, including educational programs, events, and community engagement, the organization strives to foster an appreciation for the diverse musical and cultural expressions deeply rooted in Louisiana's history. Louisiana Folk Roots plays a vital role in connecting people with the vibrant traditions of Cajun, Zydeco, and other folk genres, ensuring their continued legacy and relevance.
LOUISIANA FOLK ROOTS
"Music Instument Petting Zoo"
12:00pm - 3:00pm
Bastrop Public Library
1100 Church Street, Bastrop TX
Embark on a musical adventure with the Louisiana Folkroots "Music Instrument Petting Zoo"! Returning to Bastrop, the MIP Zoo is traveling outside of Louisiana to bring you an immersive experience that the kids won't forget! Delight in hands-on interactions with percussion, string, and accordion instruments, offering a taste of traditional Louisiana Cajun & Zydeco music. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a young exploring novice, our collection of authentic instruments and playful toy versions promises a memorable and educational journey.
"Steve Riley & Family"
2:30pm - 3:15pm
Ascension Catholic Church, Youth Room
Chestnut St. @ Water St. - Education Building
Enter Double Glass Doors inside Fenced Yard
Grammy-winning musician Steve Riley is a widely acclaimed master of the Cajun accordion. He began his musical career at seven, growing up in Mamou, Louisiana. As a teenager he honed his craft as a student of Dewey Balfa, touring and playing throughout south Louisiana with Dewey until his death in 1992. For the past 31 years, Steve and his renowned group, the Mamou Playboys, have traveled the United States and the world as ambassadors of Cajun music and culture. Also a music teacher of 30 years, Steve has passed his love of music to his two sons, Burke and Dolsy Riley. They both play multiple instruments like their father and have already logged several hours playing and singing onstage with him. In this concert, the Riley family will be sharing Cajun music history and stories.
