San Diego Gears Up for Mardi Gras Celebrations Across the City

From the Gaslamp Quarter to Hillcrest, San Diegans can indulge in Mardi Gras festivities this February.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As the Christian-rooted Carnival season approaches, San Diego is preparing to host a variety of Mardi Gras celebrations across the city. The Gaslamp Quarter will transform into a hub of Mardi Gras revelry from February 13-17, with a self-guided walking tour to 20 participating bars and restaurants. Hillcrest's Urban Mo's will offer all-you-can-eat spaghetti and Mardi Gras entertainment on February 27, while the Brass Rail nightclub will host 'Fetish Gras' events from February 13-15. In North Park, Louisiana Purchase restaurant will throw an all-day Mardi Gras party on February 17 with New Orleans-inspired food and drinks.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras celebrations provide an opportunity for San Diegans to indulge in the festive spirit of the Carnival season before the 40-day period of Lenten abstinence. These events help bring the community together, support local businesses, and allow residents to experience the vibrant culture and cuisine of New Orleans without having to travel across the country.

The details

The Gaslamp Quarter's Mardi Gras festivities will include 10 free liquor shots, party favors, and discounts on food and drinks at 20 participating venues. In Hillcrest, Urban Mo's will serve all-you-can-eat spaghetti for $8 and feature Mardi Gras show tunes, while the Brass Rail nightclub will host 'Fetish Gras' events with DJs, dancing, and live kink demonstrations. Over in North Park, Louisiana Purchase restaurant will offer a limited menu of New Orleans favorites, including hurricane cocktails, fried catfish, and Cajun wings, as well as pre-orders for traditional King Cake.

  • Mardi Gras is held the day before Lent, which falls on February 17, 2026.
  • The Gaslamp Quarter's Mardi Gras celebrations will take place on February 13, 14, and 17.
  • Urban Mo's in Hillcrest will host its Mardi Gras dinner on February 27.
  • The Brass Rail nightclub's 'Fetish Gras' events will run from February 13-15.
  • Louisiana Purchase's all-day Mardi Gras party will be held on February 17.

The players

Gaslamp Event Management

The organization that presents the Gaslamp Quarter's Mardi Gras walking tour and events.

Joshua Simmons

The event coordinator for the Brass Rail nightclub's 'Fetish Gras' events.

Quinnton Austin

The chef at Louisiana Purchase restaurant, a native of New Orleans who will be preparing a limited menu of Louisiana favorites for the Mardi Gras celebration.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The club will be given 'Bourbon Street vibes' amid DJs, dancing and 'live kink demos.'”

— Joshua Simmons, event coordinator (timesofsandiego.com)

What’s next

Revelers are encouraged to wear festive costumes that jive not only to Mardi Gras, but also to Valentine's Day (Feb 14) and the Chinese Lunar New Year (Feb. 17).

The takeaway

San Diego's Mardi Gras celebrations across the Gaslamp Quarter, Hillcrest, and North Park offer residents a chance to experience the vibrant culture and cuisine of New Orleans without having to travel, while supporting local businesses and bringing the community together in the spirit of the Carnival season.