Kansas Smitty's Mardi Gras

Late-night Mardi Gras carnival with authentic live music, an immersive New Orleans costume parade, plenty of liquor and dancing on London’s South Bank

Kansas Smitty’s and Shotgun Carousel are extremely excited to invite all saints and sinners to Fat Tuesday – London Mardi Gras 2016, happening from Friday 5th- Saturday 6th February 2016. Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras, Pancake Day – whatever you choose to call it; this February the New Orleans inspired party of the year is being brought to The Vaults in London Town.

Swap that batter for gumbo because this February, the carnival spirit of the Deep South will take to the riverside of the South Bank. Live music from The Kansas Smitty’s House Band will lead the heady crowds of the costume parade fronted by the glorious performers of Shotgun Carousel.

This year, Smitty’s House Band explores a different side of the sound of New Orleans, bringing you gritty funk, soul, zydeco and brass band classics that define ‘swamp rock’ – guaranteed to transport you to the heart of a 9th ward dive bar. Then it’s along the South Bank to the atmospheric Vaults where the King and Queen of Mardis Gras 2016 will be crowned to the toast of the finest spirits this side of Louisiana, and the music won’t stop till dawn.

Leave your inhibitions at the riverbank and raise a jar to the vibe of the year. Love, accolade and prizes will go to the most elaborate, imaginative and outlandish costumes, so bring your beads and come as your sinful self and get loose.