The Mardi Gras spirit is back, and we’re all here for it! Also called “Fat Tuesday,” Mardi Gras celebrates the beginning of the Christian observance of Lent, which lasts about six weeks and ends just before Easter. It’s this exact festive cheer that drives the Lanta Gras Parade and Festival!

Happening on Saturday, January 28, 2023, at Kirkwood, it brings the festivities of Mardi Gras and drives it towards a more significant cause: raising funds for the Lanta Gras’ student music scholarships. Lanta Gras is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that aims to foster community and opportunities for children through the shared experience of music. They established a program that supports musical instruction in brass and percussion to middle and high school students in the historic Atlanta neighborhoods of Kirkwood, East Lake, and Edgewood. Since 2015, they have provided instruments, mentorship, and instruction to over ten children for them to form local Brass Bands. 

This year, they will bring back their musical parades, starting at Bessie Branham Park all the way to Downtown Kirkwood, where the festival will kick off. Guests can enjoy various amenities and entertainment, including live music, SweetWater beer, Lanta Gras celebration, food trucks, and special NOLA Restaurant items.

They also encourage homeowners and businesses to decorate their floats Mardi Gras style! Spoiler alert: there will be awards after! You can check the complete list of floats this year here.

Lanta Gras also opened their Gift of Music Tree, where you can throw Mardi Gras beads in support of the Lanta Gras Music Program. Check it out here.