Mardi Gras is a centuries-old tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages. It was initially celebrated by European Christians as a way to mark the beginning of Lent and to prepare for the fasting period of Easter. Mardi Gras is believed to have arrived in North America on March 3, 1699, when the French-Canadian explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville camped about 60 miles downriver from the future site of New Orleans. Knowing it was Fat Tuesday back in France, Iberville named the spot Point du Mardi Gras and held a small gala. A few years later, French soldiers and settlers feasted and wore masks as part of Mardi Gras festivities in the newly founded city of Mobile (present-day Alabama). To this day, Mobile claims to have the oldest annual Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, although New Orleans has the biggest North American clebrations.

Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday", reflecting the practice of the last night of eating rich, fatty foods before the ritual Lenten sacrifices and fasting. It's a time of celebration, food and music.

Born on the streets of San Francisco in the early 70's, The Medicine Ball Band features top level musicians always hanging on to roots from New Orleans. This year's Mardi Gras celebration will feature John R Burr- piano. Ruth Davies- Bass. Danielle Wansley- drums. Rhonda Benin- vocals. John Hunt- trombone, vocals. John Stafford- clarinet, vocals. Chris Aschman- trumpet, steel pan. Richard Howell- sax. Chauncey Roberts- vocals, percussion, David Sturdevant- guitar, harmonica, vocals + Anonymous, a world famous violinist.

Tickets at Mardi Gras with Medicine Ball