Weekend activities open Saturday night, February 14, with a Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball from 8pm to midnight, featuring a live band playing in historic Miners Foundry at 325 Spring Street.

On Sunday, February 15, the Mardi Gras Street Faire will be held on North Pine Street, in Historic Downtown Nevada City, from 11:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be food, drink, crafts, and clothing. The Mardi Gras Parade begins at 2 p.m. Sunday and moves down Broad Street through the center of town. It is a rain or shine event. Merry spectators of all ages line the parade route while gaily masked societies parade through the historic district handing out beads, toys, trinkets, bangles and more. Everyone is encouraged to attend in festive Mardi Gras attire.

Don’t miss the festive after-the-parade Carnival for the whole family at the Miners Foundry from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.! Enjoy New Orleans style food, hot dogs, ice cream and desserts, soft drinks and specialty coffees. Also featuring a full bar for the adults serving Hurricanes, plus a special Bloody Mary bar. Delight in Cajun music, Izzy the Juggler, drummers, belly dancers, a bounce house, and more!  Tickets at the door only.  $5 Admission.  Kids 12 & under FREE! Visit the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce website for more information.