Didn’t make it down to Louisiana for Fat Tuesday this year? Have no fear, Baltimore's got enough Mardi Gras celebratin’ going on to make New Orleans blush. Okay, that may be an exaggeration, but check out this roundup of pre-Lenten bacchanalia, get dressed in your best gold, green and purple and get ready to enjoy the night like a Bourbon Street boss.

Mardi Gras Festival (34 Market Pl.; 410-727-5483)
Power Plant Live! plays host to this big Bourbon Street blowout on Sat., March 1, which will give guests full access to open bars at Luckie’s Tavern, Leinenkugel's Beer Garden, Mosaic Nightclub, Howl at the Moon and more. Tickets run just $25 piece, and the party goes from 9 PM to midnight.

Second Annual Nolafunk Mardi Gras Ball (124 Market Pl.; 410-244-0057)
On Sat., March 1, Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers bring the sounds of Bourbon Street to B'more for one evening only. Doors are at 7 PM, and show start at 8 PM. Get tickets here.

Fells Point Fat Tuesday Cooking Challenge (1700 Thames St.; 410-563-6800)
On Sun., March 2, from 2 to 4 PM, chefs and the staffs from 12 local restaurants will gather at Woody’s Rum Bar & Island Grill to compete in the Fells Point’s Fat Tuesday Cooking Challenge, a competition that will pit the city’s top culinary talent against each other in a battle to cook the best Cajun or Creole dish. The $20 ticket gets you full access to the tasting, two drink tickets and a voting ballot. Proceeds will be donated to Fells Point Main Street.

Cat's Eye Pub (1730 Thames St.; 410-276-9866)
Join the Cat's Eye crew on Tues., March 4 as they let the good times roll with Hurricane drink specials and beads galore.

Mardi Gras North (1700-02 Thames St.)
On Tues., March 4, beginning at 7 PM, Sláinte Irish Pub, Kooper’s Tavern and Woody’s Rum Bar and Island Grill will team up for their annual Fat Tuesday celebrations. Live music includes Trio of Renown at Kooper’s, and Dig Jazz Combo at Sláinte. Both bands will be performing authentic New Orleans music. Louisiana-inspired dishes will be available, and drink specials will include $5 Hurricanes, $4 Bacardi punch and $4 Abita beers. Proceeds will be donated to the Tyanna Foundation.