While New Orleans may be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking about Mardi Gras, Maine offers its own unique twist on this festive occasion. Despite the geographical distance from the heart of Cajun culture, Maine residents have found creative ways to infuse the spirit of Mardi Gras into their local communities.
Quick history Lesson: Maine and Louisiana share a lot more history than you might think. The Expulsion of the Acadians forced over 11,000 French settlers out of Maine and the Canadian Maritimes during the French and Indian War. Over 5,000 people died in their travels and many ended up in Spanish Louisiana, where the "Acadiens" became "Cajuns."
With Mardi Gras right around the corner - February 13th this year - lets take a look at some of the ways you can celebrate Fat Tuesday in Maine!
Food
It wouldn't be Fat Tuesday without an overindulgence in food and Portland, Maine is one of the best places to do that. We're starting the day off strong with breakfast or brunch at Hot Suppa! This spot has been serving up some of Portland's best southern cuisine for years and has one of the best brunch menus in the area.
Next stop, Po' Boys and Pickles for lunch! With $4 beer specials and perfectly overstuffed po' boys, this is a great choice to fill up mid day. They will also be running a Mardi Gras raffle for customers buying a sandwich, fries, and a drink.
Sadly, there's no spot in Portland that offers a selection of Cajun food for dinner. There's the Shaking Crab in South Portland, but if I wanted to suggest a franchise that could also be found in Las Vegas, there's Popeye's Chicken. Fortunately, Coals Pizza is kickin' it up with some Chicken and Sausage Gumbo and a Cajun pizza special for Tuesday night!
Events
It wouldn't be a proper Mardi Gras celebration without music - particularly jazz and brass bands. Being on a Tuesday, there won't be a ton of festivities on Mardi Gras aside from live music at Dock Fore by Charlie Brown but there will be plenty going on this weekend.
Hallowell will have its Annual Mardi Gras Parade and Masquerade Ball on Saturday the 10th starting at 6 pm. Maine Craft Distilling will be hosting New Orleans' own Glen David Andrews, Soggy Po Boys, and The Nightshades on Friday the 9th. And One Longfellow Square will have the Heather Pierson Trio on Friday as well.
That should be enough festivities to fatten us all up next Tuesday. I hope you enjoy your Mardi Gras and thanks for stopping by Vacationland.
