UPDATE: Chicago gears up for an exciting Fat Tuesday celebration on February 17, 2026, with a variety of dining and entertainment options across the city. As the day before Ash Wednesday approaches, locals and visitors alike can indulge in festive meals and vibrant festivities reminiscent of New Orleans and Rio de Janeiro.
JUST ANNOUNCED: Area restaurants and bars will host special events and menus, offering everything from classic Cajun dishes to live music performances. Attendees are encouraged to don masks and beads for an immersive experience.
More than 19 locations throughout the city are rolling out the red carpet for this year’s Mardi Gras events. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s happening:
In The Loop and Near North Side, head to Industry Ales for a five-course Mardi Gras dinner at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, featuring crawfish boudin croquettes and beignets for $125 (230 S. Wabash Ave.). Meanwhile, Lirica at Navy Pier will celebrate Brazilian Carnival from February 13-21, offering specials like muffaleta sliders and crawfish dip (900 E. Grand Ave.).
Shaw’s Crab House invites revelers for a Mardi Gras menu from February 12-17, including chargrilled oysters for $21 and a shrimp boil on Fat Tuesday for $50, accompanied by live music from the Mike Wheeler Band (21 E. Hubbard St.).
On the North Side, Big Jones is serving up a special menu through Mardi Gras with seafood gumbo for $24 and sizzling jambalaya for $36 (5347 N. Clark St.). For a more casual vibe, Cody’s Public House will feature a buffet with gumbo and jambalaya at 7 p.m. along with drink specials (1658 W. Barry Ave.).
Over on the West Side, The Chicago Firehouse is throwing its ninth annual Fat Tuesday party from 6-10 p.m., complete with a premium open bar and buffet featuring a spicy crawfish boil (1401 S. Michigan Ave.).
Don’t miss out on the king cake tradition! Scafuri Bakery offers a 10-inch king cake for $25-$28, available for pickup on Sunday or Tuesday (1337 W. Taylor St.).
As the festivities unfold, Chicagoans are reminded to check individual venue schedules and make reservations where necessary. The party atmosphere is set to be electric, with live music, themed cocktails, and delicious food that evokes the spirit of Mardi Gras.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Stay tuned for updates on last-minute specials and events as Fat Tuesday approaches. Chicago is ready to celebrate in style, and it promises to be a night to remember. Gather your friends, grab your beads, and join the fun in the city’s vibrant Mardi Gras scene!
