It may be the dead of winter, but plans to drum up excitement in the city are under way with the fifth annual Carnaval de Canal on Fat Tuesday (Feb. 9) – just before Ash Wednesday. Large, jubilant crowds are expected to take over Worcester’s Canal District, where delicious food and unique shopping experiences will blend with lively entertainment, including street performers.

The idea for the Mardi Gras event was born when Canal District board members were trying to come up with a fun way to showcase all the area has to offer. “We wanted residents in Worcester and beyond to come down to the district and go to places they may have heard of and seen, but never visited,” said Amanda Riik, co-vice president of Canal District of Worcester. “What is really cool about this event is that it’s not just one set location, you can go to any venue participating.”

The Canal District – which encompasses Harding, Green, Water and Millbury streets – will take on a New Orleans vibe for the night. College students, too, are encouraged to hit up the numerous bars and restaurants. It’s easy for those living in close proximity to forget about what is right in their own backyard. “There are a lot of new places that didn’t exist even at last year’s event,” remarked Riik.

The board members got a little creative when coming up with special features to make the night more than just restaurant- and shop-hopping. One of the fun ways people can get better acquainted with all the district has to offer is by participating in the picture scavenger hunt. The quest sends participants throughout various venues to take pictures of specific objects.

Another highlight of the event is the contest for the best Mardi Gras King and Queen costume. Winning the coveted title will take more than the standard bead flair, as secret judges decide who best embodies what the night is all about. “Last year, the people who won had no idea they were surrounded by hidden judges,” said Riik.

Getting people out on a Tuesday does more than bode well for people’s spirits on an otherwise cold night; it brings businesses together, too. Many establishments in the district already hold their own Mardi Gras specials, so the more formal organization helps promote all of them. “It’s [Carnaval de Canal] district-wide, so it’s an opportunity for all the businesses to work in a cooperative way and do things they couldn’t do separately,” said Mullen Sawyer, president of Canal District of Worcester.

The fun begins at 6 p.m., but unlike in the past, this year’s Carnaval de Canal won’t have a welcome introduction or special kick-off speech. Instead, visitors are encouraged to take the shuttle to the festivities. Better yet, Riik encourages people to put on their boots, walk around and truly take in all the night has to offer.

For more information on Carnaval de Canal, visit the event page at facebook.com/events/768815489873049.

By Maxine Giza