Bend Food Lot Hosts 'Mardi Gras for a Mission' Fundraiser

Event celebrates local cancer patient's completion of chemotherapy and raises money for Saint Charles Integrated Therapies

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The "On Tap" food lot in Bend, Oregon is hosting a "Mardi Gras for a Mission" event tonight to celebrate a local cancer patient completing chemotherapy. The fundraiser, held on Fat Tuesday, will also raise money for Saint Charles Integrated Therapies.

Why it matters

While Mardi Gras is not widely celebrated in Oregon, this event provides a local opportunity to observe the holiday while supporting a good cause. The food lot prioritizes hosting community-oriented events to assist local residents.

The details

The celebration features live music and specialized menu items from multiple vendors at the lot, including traditional Mardi Gras foods like Cajun red beans and rice with shrimp, shrimp and grits, and po'boy sandwiches. Organizers have placed QR codes throughout the venue for guests to scan and donate directly to the fund for Saint Charles Integrated Therapies.

  • The event is being held tonight, on Fat Tuesday (February 18, 2026).

The players

On Tap

A food lot in Bend, Oregon that prioritizes hosting community-oriented events to assist local residents.

Katie Ness

The manager of On Tap.

Saint Charles Integrated Therapies

A local organization that will receive donations from the fundraiser.

Curb-BQ

A vendor at the On Tap food lot serving Cajun red beans and rice with shrimp.

The Bleu Rooster

A vendor at the On Tap food lot offering shrimp and grits and po'boy sandwiches.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We always try to support anyone in our community. That's what we love about On Tap is that they are very community oriented.”

— Katie Ness, Manager of On Tap (KTVZ)

The takeaway

This event highlights how local businesses and organizations can come together to support their community, even by celebrating holidays that are not traditionally observed in the region. The fundraiser for Saint Charles Integrated Therapies demonstrates the power of community-driven initiatives to make a positive impact.