Floyd Mardi Gras

On a cold February night in 2010, bands, dancers and audience gathered in The Sun Music Hall for the very first Floyd Mardi Gras Costume Ball. Fast forward six years and the venue has transformed into Dogtown Roadhouse, and Floyd Mardi Gras has been in three different venues. But now it’s Homecoming time for this Blue Mountain School fundraiser. Floyd Mardi Gras returns to Dogtown on Saturday, February 6th, for what promises to be the biggest, most diverse Floyd Mardi Gras yet.

Headlining this year is Washington DC sensation Sol Roots, backed by the all-star Lagniappe—this year featuring Tad Dickens (The Roanoke Times), Janiah Allen (The Color J), Cam McLaughlin (Alliens), and a host of special guests. Opening for Sol Roots & Lagniappe are Blacksburg boogie-meisters Badunkafunk and, playing everything from the old time to the far side, Buddhagraph Spaceship make their Floyd debut, while DJ RahBee fills out the night with all the fresh beats you can eat. And for your visual pleasure, Gyroscopic return once again with a stunning dance show, and Scott Smith styles the psychedelic projector. And MC Shamama joins all the dots.

In the spirit of homecoming, the live auction returns, with auctioneer extraordinaire Tom O’Neill, Esq. returning to raise his voice and lower his hammer. The silent auction remains as well, this year taking over the Winter Sun Clothing Store next door to Dogtown, right alongside the gambling tables that we’re introducing this year for those feeling lucky.

But everyone’s potentially a winner anyway, with the Fifty-Fifty Raffle and all sorts of prizes, including Chef’s Choice for Two at Mickey G’s for the evening’s best costume. But the biggest prize of the night is the crowning of 2016’s Floyd Mardi Gras King and Queen.

And for those who want to do Mardi Gras in style, we have Stay & Dine packages from Floyd Lodging Association and Oddf3llows Restaurant, and Dogtown Roadhouse are providing Mardi Gras-themed food and drinks. Get in quick for one of two VIP Tables, complete with champagne, pizza, and a great view of the stage!

But Mardi Gras isn’t just for the adults. Children get to party too at the Kiddy Gras Pajama Party, just up the road at The June Bug Center. Hosted by Rebbecca Jackson, this is one of the funnest nights of the year on any kid’s calendar. Get your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

Tickets available at Blue Mountain School, Republic of Floyd, Winter Sun Clothing, and online at www.bluemountainschool.net.