What is Mardi Gras?
Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” is all about indulgence, celebration, and delicious food before the Lenten season begins. Whether you’re here to enjoy classic New Orleans-style dishes, festive cocktails, or a lively masquerade party, the Outer Banks has plenty of ways to let the good times roll!
Your Guide to Mardi Gras on the Outer Banks
Mardi Gras may be a New Orleans tradition, but the Outer Banks knows how to throw a party. From live music and colorful beads to Southern-inspired specials and festive cocktails, you’ll find plenty of ways to celebrate Fat Tuesday in style. Whether you’re looking for a lively night out or delicious Cajun flavors to go, the OBX has you covered.
The Cajun Occasion Mardi Gras Celebration
Sanctuary Vineyards is bringing a taste of Louisiana to the Outer Banks with The Cajun Occasion Mardi Gras Celebration on Sunday, February 15, 2026. This afternoon event blends live Mardi Gras music, Cajun cuisine, and a relaxed vineyard setting, perfect for locals and visitors looking to celebrate. Expect a lively but laid-back atmosphere with live music by Just Playing Dixieland and Cajun food provided by Coinjock Catering.
Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
- Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Location: Sanctuary Vineyards, Jarvisburg
- Music: Live Mardi Gras music by Just Playing Dixieland
- Food: Cajun cuisine by Coinjock Catering
- Tickets: $35
Best Outer Banks Restaurants for a Delicious Fat Tuesday Meal
Ocean Boulevard Bistro & Martini Bar
Ocean Boulevard Bistro puts on a true Mardi Gras feast with a special menu inspired by classic New Orleans flavors. Think crab bisque, seared scallops, blackened fish, and indulgent desserts, all paired with creative cocktails and an upscale-but-welcoming atmosphere.
It’s perfect for a date night or a special Fat Tuesday dinner if you want the real taste of Louisiana without leaving the Outer Banks. Reservations are highly recommended; they always fill up fast!
Lucky 12 Tavern
Lucky 12 Tavern in Nags Head is always a great pick for a laid-back Mardi Gras celebration. With plenty of TVs, an easygoing pub atmosphere, and a menu full of crowd-pleasers like oysters, burgers, and pizza, it’s the perfect spot to grab a drink and soak up the festive vibe.
Keep an eye out for Mardi Gras drink specials and beads to get into the spirit.
Seafood Boils for Mardi Gras on the Outer Banks
Steamers Restaurant & Catering
Steamers Restaurant & Catering in Southern Shores is a longtime Outer Banks favorite for fresh, high-quality seafood in a relaxed, inviting setting. Perfect for Mardi Gras celebrations, Steamers serves up everything from classic seafood boils and steamed shellfish platters to lobster, crab cakes, and daily specials inspired by coastal flavors.
Whether you dine in or take out, Steamers is a great choice for a Fat Tuesday meal that’s both delicious and memorable.
Hatteras Island Seafood Boils
Hatteras Island Seafood Boil brings a hands-on, coastal take to Mardi Gras celebrations on the Outer Banks. Specializing in traditional Low Country style seafood boils, their team makes it easy to enjoy a stress-free feast through on-site preparation for events or convenient pickup from their food truck in Avon. Each boil features a classic mix of shrimp, clams, snow crab legs, andouille sausage, corn on the cob, and red potatoes, seasoned and cooked fresh.
It’s an easy way to gather everyone around the table and celebrate Fat Tuesday with bold flavors, minimal prep, and a true Outer Banks seafood experience.
Celebrating Mardi Gras on the Outer Banks
Mardi Gras on the Outer Banks may look a little different than New Orleans, but that’s part of the charm. From vineyard celebrations and live music to seafood boils and Cajun-inspired menus, there are plenty of ways to mark the season with good food, good company, and a local spin. Whether you’re planning ahead or keeping things low-key, these events and dining options make it easy to celebrate Fat Tuesday OBX-style, no beads required.
More OBX restaurants celebrating Mardi Gras with Cajun and NOLA-themed specials? Contact us at info@obxrestaurantguide.com to get added!