Reasons to be Thankful for the Mardi Gras Pub Crawl

Thanksgiving is a time to express gratitude for things and people that you appreciate in your life. We hope that the World’s Largest Mardi Gras Pub Crawl makes the list. In this week’s blog, we will tell you a few reasons to be thankful for the Lake of the Ozarks Mardi Gras Pub Crawl.  

Fun Event to Attend during the Winter Months

By January, most of us lake lovers are starting to get cabin fever. We miss the excitement that we all experience during the fun-filled summer months at the Lake of the Ozarks. The pub crawl falls in February when we need to get out of the house, socialize, and have some fun. This event brings out a crowd of people who are dressed up and ready to enjoy the traditions of Mardi Gras. People who think there’s nothing to do during the offseason obviously haven’t had a chance to attend the Mardi Gras Pub Crawl.  

We Take the Worry out of Drinking and Driving 

Since a large portion of the evening involves alcoholic beverages, we wanted to make sure that there was a way for everyone to enjoy themselves without having to worry about finding a volunteer to be the sober chauffeur. After all, this event only comes around once a year! 

For the price of a $10 wristband, we provide transportation on our Lake Pub Crawl buses from 4:00 pm on Saturday, February 8th, 2020, through the wee hours of Sunday morning. (That wristband gets you into every bar & restaurant too!) Not only are there safe buses to transport you to every stop, but there are over 30 buses running continuously so that you don't have to wait very long when you're ready to go. Stops are also made at hotels along the route and most off-route hotels and resorts offer a shuttle of their own to get you to the pub crawl. That means you don't even need your car keys to get to the event! 

One Lucky Winner Goes for FREE

We are giving away an all-inclusive Lake Pub Crawl package to a lucky winner, and all you have to do is visit www.LakePubCrawl.com and sign up! As long as you do that before the drawing being held on January 31, 2020, you will be entered to win:

• 2 Event Wristbands
• 2 Lake Pub Crawl T-Shirts
• A 1-Night Hotel Stay
• A variety of gift certificates to participating bars. 

Many Ways to Stay Updated on the Event

Even though it’s only Thanksgiving, February 8, 2020, is going to be here quicker than you'd expect! The closer it gets to the actual date, the best hotels will begin filling up fast. The sooner you begin making plans with all of your friends to be here, the better! 

To make sure that you are always kept up-to-date on everything involving all of the pub crawl fun, we've got a few easy ways to do just that. To receive text messages sent directly to your phone, simply text "LAKEPUBCRAWL" to 71441. If you prefer a monthly email update, you can sign up for our Lake Pub Crawl newsletter on the website. Last, but certainly not least, follow us on your favorite social media channels. From there you can share posts with friends, ask questions, make comments, and keep the excitement for this upcoming event going strong. 

Start making plans with your friends and family at Thanksgiving dinner to attend the winter event of Lake of the Ozarks. We are still in the process of planning all the details for the Lake Pub Crawl, but we will be releasing new information soon. 

TEXT "LakePubCrawl" to 71441 for updates about 

the Lake of the Ozarks Pub Crawl

To keep up with the latest news:

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If you need additional information, contact us at info@lakepubcrawl.com

Brought to you by the

Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

Mardi Gras Traditions over the Years

When you think of Mardi Gras there are definite traditions that have been practiced for hundreds of years. Mardi Gras in New Orleans follows several of the traditions for this over the top carnival holiday.  We are hoping that attending the World’s Largest Mardi Gras Pub Crawl becomes a tradition for many of you. In this week’s blog, we will highlight a few of the most common traditions practiced during Mardi Gras.

When you look at the history of Mardi Gras you will often see the word Krewe used. A Krewe is an organization that is responsible for creating the parties and parades happening for Mardi Gras in New Orleans. It is made up of several members and a captain, and these people work throughout the year in secret preparing for the big celebration. There are many Krewes around today, but the Rex Krewe dates all the way back to the 1800s. Krewes were mostly made up of males until the early 1900s when all-female krewes began to appear. Krewes seem to be involved in the creation of many Mardi Gras traditions.  

Beads and Doubloons

Beads are the most popular thing thrown for Mardi Gras across the country, but in New Orleans, a wide variety of things are thrown from parade floats in addition to beads. In the first parades the beads were made of glass but in the mid-twentieth century plastic beads were introduced. Small

trinkets such as stuffed animals, small toys, doubloons, and plastic cups (aka New Orleans dinnerware!) are all used.  Doubloons became a very popular commodity in 1960 when they were first thrown by the Krewe of Rex. Doubloons are 2-sided medallions that have become a collector’s item in New Orleans. The medallions had the krewe’s founding date, emblem, and name on one side and the theme of the parade on the other side. Over the years, they became so popular that every krewe created their own doubloon. If you plan on attending a parade in New Orleans be prepared to work hard to get your hands on a doubloon, they are very sought after from parade-goers.

Masks

Mardi Gras masks add an element of mystery and intrigue to the celebration. Originally, wearing a mask during this holiday allowed a person to let their guard down and feel free to have a good time. This allowed different classes of society to mingle with each other. Today it is a fun and beautiful tradition that still allows a person to feel like they can be a bit freer to act out more than usual, providing a sense of anonymity. The law in New Orleans requires anyone riding on a float must wear a mask.  

King Cakes

King Cakes have changed quite a bit over the years. The New Orleans King cake may be plain, filled with cream cheese, fruit, or pecans. The cake is decorated with the traditional Mardi Gras colors purple, green, and gold. This may sound a little bazaar, but a plastic baby is placed inside the cake and whoever the lucky person is the receives the piece of cake with the baby is asked to buy the next cake.

With these traditions explained, now you are prepared to attend the Lake Pub Crawl on February 8, 2020. Maybe we should start our own tradition at the Lake of the Ozarks with our own doubloon and our version of the King Cake. To follow updated information on the Mardi Gras Pub Crawl, follow our social media or visit our website.  You can also text “LakePubCrawl” to 71441.  

TEXT "LakePubCrawl" to 71441 for updates about 

the Lake of the Ozarks Pub Crawl

To keep up with the latest news:

Follow us on Twitter

LIKE us on Facebook

Follow us on Instagram

Check out our Website

If you need additional information, contact us at info@lakepubcrawl.com

Brought to you by the

Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

Famous Celebrations around the World for Mardi Gras

The Lake of the Ozarks Mardi Gras Pub Crawl is hoping to create a Mardi Gras atmosphere as well-known as New Orleans. New Orleans is known in the United States as the best Mardi Gras celebration in the country. This well-known holiday is celebrated all over the world with lavish parties and costumes. In this week’s blog, we will highlight some of the best celebrations in the world. 

Cologne, Germany

We all think New Orleans has the longest Mardi Gras celebration, but in Cologne, the party starts November 11th and runs to Fat Tuesday. The kickoff starts with a “Women’s Carnival” which is an unofficial holiday where women dress up in costumes and rule the day with harmless fun. You can also expect a rose parade and the burning of straw figures. Street vendors serve traditional German food like brats and pretzels along with hot spiced wine. 

Venice, Italy

One of the oldest festivals held Venice is the Carnival of Venice. The extravagant costumes, the lavish balls, and the elaborate masks that are worn have made the festival world-famous. There are many dances, carnivals, fireworks, and concerts throughout the city. The famous Festa Veneziana brings the celebration to the water, by rowing down the canal in costume. People gather along the canal to enjoy the show. 

Rio de Janeiro

This celebration is labeled as the world's biggest Carnival. According to the calendar, their events last for 5 days, but the parties can begin months before that! It takes place in the peak of summer in South America with wildly elaborate balls, uninhibited dancing, flashy costumes, and huge, glittery parades. Dozens of samba schools compete in a famous competition consisting of costumes, choreography, and percussion. Rio Carnival is the favorite holiday celebration in Rio.

Cadiz, Spain

Cadiz, Spain is known for its satire and music during their Mardi Gras celebration. It is the oldest celebration on the mainland. There is a singing competition three weeks before the opening day of the carnival. The competition is full of satire and entertainment down the streets. They also have parades and fireworks for people to enjoy. 

Quebec City, Canada

A giant snowman with a red cap named Bonhomme happens to be the official mascot for the festivities. You can expect all kinds of sporty events at the Quebec City carnival. Guests will enjoy canoe races and dogsled races just to name a couple. It’s not your normal Mardi Gras celebration with costumes and parades. In Quebec City, you will see ice and snow sculptures along with a snow bath where people with celebrating indoors in swimsuits.    

Nice, France

The Nice Carnival is held on the French Riviera, is one of the world’s largest Mardi Gras events. The event lasts 15 days and is full of flowers. By flowers we truly mean, they have a parade where the floats are made from flowers and flowers are thrown to the spectators. 

As you can see, Mardi Gras is a special time of year for people all over the world. For those who can’t travel to a different country to enjoy the holiday, the Lake of the Ozarks Mardi Gras parade will not disappoint. Dress up in your favorite Mardi Gras costume, buy a wristband, and ride the bus for a place to place to enjoy a night of fun at the Lake of the Ozarks. For more information about the Lake Pub Crawl, visit our website, follow our social media, or text LAKEPUBCRAWL to 71441. 

TEXT "LakePubCrawl" to 71441 for updates about 

the Lake of the Ozarks Pub Crawl

To keep up with the latest news:

Follow us on Twitter

LIKE us on Facebook

Follow us on Instagram

Check out our Website

If you need additional information, contact us at info@lakepubcrawl.com

Brought to you by the

Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

Amazing Mardi Gras Celebrations held in the US

Many cities across the United States celebrate Mardi Gras by partaking in drinks and Cajun food.  The tradition of Mardi Gras in strong in the US since the French and Catholics communities arrived in Alabama.  Regardless of what city you choose to enjoy the festivities, you’re sure to enjoy over the top parades, costumes, amazing food, and plenty of beverages.  The World’s Largest Mardi Gras Pub Crawl will not disappoint, crawlers will be dressed for the celebration, restaurants will have great food choices, and plenty of drinks try.  In this week’s blog, we will highlight cities across the US that will also be celebrating Mardi Gras in full force. 

New Orleans, Louisiana

It’s no secret that New Orleans is known for its Mardi Gras.  Thousands of people head to New Orleans to watch the Mardi Gras parades, listen to live music, and drink the night away.  The party lasts about 2 weeks in New Orleans with something for everyone to enjoy.  If you’re planning on heading to New Orleans do your research on what parades and parties that most interest you.  This will ensure you don’t show up at the wrong type of party.  

Mobile, Alabama

In 1703 the first Mardi Gras celebration that is known was in Mobile.  Like New Orleans, they start the carnival celebration two weeks prior to Fat Tuesday.  The streets of Mobile with be lined with bands, dancers, and performers of all kinds.  If you decide Mobile is a place you would like to check out for Mardi Gras, check out the Carnival Museum that is dedicated to the history of Mardi Gras in Mobile.

Galveston, TX

We all know Texas likes to do things big!  The Mardi Gras celebration in Galveston keeps with that statement.  With floats, food, and music the Galveston celebration is one of the most famous events in the country.

St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis boasts that they have the best Mardi Gras event outside of New Orleans.  They might be right, Soulard is the place to be during Mardi Gras.  With lavish balls and parades throughout St. Louis, you have your choice of where you would like to go.  The restaurants in St. Louis are fantastic so expect to have a great time with great cuisine while attending Mardi Gras in St. Louis. 

Orlando, Florida

Universal Studio goes all out for 50 days for Mardi Gras with a parade and performers every night.  There will be headliners for visitors to enjoy at the large concerts they will have at Universal. 

Pensacola, Florida

Have you ever seen a parade held at night?  At Pensacola, the city has two parades and one of them is held in the evening, the floats that have lights all over them.  The parade that is held during the day is also extravagant with costumes that are sure to impress.

As you can see Mardi Gras parties will be held all of the country, however the Lake of the Ozarks Mardi Gras Pub Crawl in the largest in the world.  Mark your calendars for a great winter event at the Lake of the Ozarks.  The Mardi Gras Pub Crawl will be February 8, 2020, this year.  To keep up to date on all the details follow our social media, check our website, or sign up for our text alerts. 

TEXT "LakePubCrawl" to 71441 for updates about 

the Lake of the Ozarks Pub Crawl

To keep up with the latest news:

Follow us on Twitter

LIKE us on Facebook

Follow us on Instagram

Check out our Website

If you need additional information, contact us at info@lakepubcrawl.com

Brought to you by the

Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

2020 is the 19th Year of the Mardi Gras Pub Crawl

Start 2020 with a bang by attending the Lake of the Ozarks Mardi Gras Pub Crawl. This will be the 19th Annual Mardi Gras Pub Crawl and this one will not disappoint. The crawl started as a small local pub crawl to give the locals a great event to enjoy in the offseason. Over the years the pub crawl has grown into the biggest annual party at the Lake of the Ozarks that goers drive hours to attend. 

Some guests go all out with their Mardi Gras costume with exquisite masks, beads, large Mardi Gras hats, and we can’t forget the tutus. Purple, gold, and green outfits will fill the bars and streets of Osage Beach & Lake Ozark. If you aren’t interested in dressing up for the big event, that’s ok. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the night of fun. However, Mardi Gras Pub Crawl t-shirts will be available to purchase before the crawl or you can pick one up at the bars that are participating in the crawl. Wear them to the pub crawl or take one home as a keepsake. 

We are still working on finalizing the stops on the crawl this year, but last year we had 16 stops full of fun and entertainment. As more people continue to come to the pub crawl, more establishments will participate in the night of fun. The bars & restaurants will stretch from the outskirts of Osage Beach to the historic Bagnell Dam Strip. There will be a mix of live bands and DJ’s that will have the dance rocking all night long. 

The first year of the pub crawl guests were on their own to get from stop to stop. As the pub crawl progressed over the years, buses were added to shuttle crawlers from stop to stop. The event has grown so much last year we were up to 32 buses running from stop to stop picking up crawlers and taking them to their next stop. The buses will make stops throughout the night at participating hotels picking up folks who do not want to drive to the first stop of the night. Some hotels that are not on the route will provide their shuttle to ensure their guests get home safely. 

There is a $10 wrist band fee which will get you into all the bars and restaurants with no cover charge. 

The wrist band is required and includes:

• Entry to 16 participating venues
• Unlimited entertainment – All locations will have a band or DJ
• Bus transportation to all 16 locations.
• Pick up and drop off at participating Hotels/Motels.

Wrist bands can be purchased the night of the event or before the event at all the participating bars/restaurants and specific Hotel/Motel sponsors. Sunshine Daydream on the Bagnell Dam strip will have wrist bands available, too!

Stay tuned for the announcement of the bars/restaurants that will be participating in 2020 and the Don’t Drink & Drive Hotel packages that will be available. The 2020 Lake of the Ozarks Pub Crawl is scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2020. The buses will run from 4:00 pm – 2:30 am to make sure everyone gets where they need to be that night. You can stay updated on the 19th Annual Lake of the Ozarks Mardi Gras Pub Crawl a couple of different ways. Follow our social media, sign up for our email newsletter at www.LakePubCrawl.com, or text “LakePubCrawl” to 71441. 

TEXT "LakePubCrawl" to 71441 for updates about 

the Lake of the Ozarks Pub Crawl

To keep up with the latest news:

Follow us on Twitter

LIKE us on Facebook

Follow us on Instagram

Check out our Website

If you need additional information, contact us at info@lakepubcrawl.com

Brought to you by the

Lake Area Chamber of Commerce