Mardi Gras in Capital City: Come to the party in Baton Rouge

As Louisiana counts down to Fat Tuesday, communities all around the state ready their costumes, floats and parade trinkets for several days of festivities. In the capital city of Baton Rouge, the final two weekends before Mardi Gras are peppered with parties and parades tailor-made for family fun.

Festivities in Baton Rouge include Mardi Gras balls staged by the respective parade organizations, an annual "Mardi Gras Mambo" party, plenty of live music and entertertainment.

For an offbeat spectacle, catch the Spanish Town Mardi Gras Parade, or opt for the milder-flavored family-style parades before and on Fat Tuesday.

For more details of upcoming events, see VisitBatonRouge.com.

Here's a list of 2012 Baton Rouge Carnival parades, dates and times. Check the individual parade organizations' websites for updated details of each event. Come to Baton Rouge and have a ball!

Krewe of Mutts Parade
, Sun., Jan. 29

Krewe of Jupiter Parade, Sat., Feb. 4, 6 p.m.


Krewe of Artemis Parade, 
Fri., Feb. 10, 7 p.m.

Krewe of Mystique Parade, 
Sat., Feb. 11, 2 p.m.

Krewe of Orion Parade
, Sat., Feb. 11, 6:30 p.m.


Krewe of Spanish Town Parade, 
Sat., Feb. 18, noon

Krewe of Poseidon Parade, 
Sat., Feb. 18, 4 p.m.