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Mardi Gras to light up Pelican Rapids [UPDATED]
Published 11:00am Thursday, February 14, 2013 Updated 1:24pm Friday, February 15, 2013While traditionally Mardi Gras is an indulging night before the penitence of Lent, it takes on a much more simple meaning in Pelican Rapids — a really fun party in the middle of a long winter.
The Pelican Rapids Chamber of Commerce is putting on its infamous annual Mardi Gras bash beginning at 6 p.m, with the band starting at 8 p.m., on Feb. 23 at the local VFW Post 5252.
“It’s a really fun event, with live music, food and really good prizes,” said Chamber board president Eric Guler.
$10 will admit guests to the party, which includes music by Giving Back Jack, a Fergus Falls band that plays everything from classic to contemporary rock. There is also an opportunity to bid on a host of silent auction prizes.
“We’ve got some great prizes this year,” said Chamber board member Shelley Gummeringer. “And we’ll be rolling out the booze barrel, in keeping with the Mardi Gras theme.”
Guests can buy a raffle ticket during the evening for the booze barrel — a wheelbarrow full of donated liquor and beer.
“The fist 50 guests will receive a free Mardi Gras kit,” said Guler. “It includes a mask or hat and beads.”
Dinner is available for separate purchase from Elmo’s Restaurant, located within the VFW hall. Elmo’s promises a special Mardi Gras themed menu including catfish and shrimp specials.
A prize for the most festive costume will cap the night.
Proceeds benefit Chamber activities in Pelican Rapids.
“We help promote the area being a tourist town,” said Guler. “In a small community all of us need to pull together and help one another out. If we can draw people to town, they’ll make multiple stops along the way.”
The Chamber helps draw large crowds to events it supports, such as the Pelican Fest and Oktoberfest.
The Chamber Mardi Gras party will be held at the VFW Post 5252, 29 First Avenue NW in Pelican Rapids.
