It’s Mardi Gras time, and that means that lots of people will be drinking hurricanes, throwing beads at each other, eating food, and partying like maniacs in Fayetteville over the next week or so. Among other things.

Fayetteville Mardi Gras is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and in addition to the regular events on Fat Saturday and Fat Tuesday, they’ve also added a masquerade ball on Saturday, March 5.

There are basically four Mardi Gras related events going on through Fat Tuesday (March 8), and here’s the skinny on each one.

Parade of Pearls

Where: Fayetteville City Hospital
When: Friday, March 4, 2:30 p.m.
What: Each year on the Friday before Mardi Gras, the Demented Krewe of Dickson will be parading in costumes for the residents at Fayetteville City Hospital, a long term care facility here in town. They are also seeking volunteers to join the party.

Fat Saturday Parade of Fools

Where: Dickson Street
When: Saturday, March 5, 3:30 p.m.
What: The annual Parade of Fools takes place on Saturday starting at 3:30 p.m. Volunteer organizer Dixie Ryne told us that she’s never sure how many floats will participate in the parade. “I know that the Krewes who always particpate will be there, but we always have people show up the day of the parade,” she said. The parade begins on the Fayetteville Square, and runs down Block Avenue, to Dickson Street, and down to West Avenue (see map below).

Masquerade of Fools / Funkytown Ball

Where: East Square Plaza
When: Saturday, March 5, 8 p.m.
What: Several local Krewes and many volunteers and merry-makers come together for an adults-only evening of costumes, music, dancing, and festivity. Doors open at 7 p.m., the cover is $10 at the door. There will be a cash bar, and live music with The Sarah Hughes Band and Snake Eyes & The Bug Band.

Fat Tuesday on Dickson Street

Where: Dickson Street
When: Tuesday, March 8, 8 p.m.
What: Festivities will begin about 7 p.m. at Jose’s Mexican Restaurant. The Crowning of the
Royalty of the Demented Krewe of Dickson will be held at around 8 p.m. After that, The Krewe will parade with the Billy Zydeco Band through sponsoring clubs on Dickson Street. Participation is open to all adults.