My Backyard

 COLORFUL ANNUAL MARDI GRAS FESTIVITIES HIGHLIGHT ACTIVE VISITOR WEEKEND

Rhode Island’s Blackstone River Valley becomes “party central” over the February 6-7 weekend, as the Southern New England region hosts one of the most vibrant and festive Mardi Gras celebrations.

The City of Woonsocket, RI, which has strong Franco-Canadian roots, proudly stages its own annual version of the pre lent celebration each February offering events in a family fun atmosphere.

In addition, the February 6-7 weekend is “Super Bowl Sunday” the holiest of days for die hard football fans who huddle around gatherings to cheer on their favorite team to win the coveted Vince Lombardi trophy.

For residents and visitors to the Blackstone River Valley, there are happenings that appeal to both partygoers and sports enthusiasts alike.

Woonsocket Mardi Gras 2010

Grab your beads and costumes and join in the excitement of the Woonsocket Mardi Gras events happening citywide, Saturday, February 6, and presented by the Northern RI Council on the Arts (NRICA)

This year’s celebration will honor the memory of Jack Lawhead, a founding member of the Opera House Society, who passed away last month after a long battle with cancer.

The evening Mardi Gras Ball runs 6 pm-12 midnight at the Father Marot CYO Center located at 53 Federal Street.

Festivities include a Cajun-style buffet and two Zydeco bands: Slippery Sneakers, a local group, and Jefferey Broussard and the Creole Cowboys, of Louisiana. As tradition follows, King Jace XVI will be unmasked, with a cash prize awarded to the winner who has correctly guessed the king’s identity. Tickets for the adult festivities are $25, with a limited number of tickets that will be sold at the door for $30.

Earlier in the day, from 2-4 pm, there will be a free Children’s Mardi Gras held at the Museum of Work and Culture, located at Market Square. Children ages 4 to 9 may attend festivities. The program will include a movie, food, a costume parade, with prizes for best costume to be awarded, among other surprises. Admission will be granted to the first 60 children and their parents.

For tickets and information on the Mardi Gras events contact 401-762-9072 or go to the web at www.nrica.org

More Woonsocket fun events!

Meanwhile, Stadium Theatre, also in Woonsocket, RI, at Monument Square presents Cirque Le Masque live on stage Saturday night, February 6, at 8 pm.

This stage show features a colorful and incredible spectacular of characters and acrobatics set in the atmosphere of Carnivale in Rio de Janeiro.

Show tickets are $26/$31/$36 and are available by calling the box office at 401-762-4545 or go online at www.stadiumtheatre.com

And, Chan’s Eggrolls and Jazz, at 267 Main Street, has two concerts lined up for the weekend.

Friday night, at 8 pm and 10 pm, attend the CD Release concert for Duke Robillard, Sonny Crownover and Friends.

Saturday evening, February 6, at 8 pm, don’t miss a performance by The Fat City Band.

For tickets and concert details call Chan’s at 401-765-1900 or go to www.chanseggrollsandjazz.com