First up is the Downtown Panama City Mardi Gras featuring an all-day music, food and fun Festival at the Marina Civic Center, an evening Parade, Costume Contests and more. Sponsored by the Krewe of Massalina.

For more information on this event, visit their website:
http://www.kreweofmassalina.com    (right click to open in new window) 

Next is Mardi Gras in St. Andrews. This is where Panama City started celebrating Mardi Gras, in 1997. From modest beginnings, the St. Andrews celebration has turned into one of the year's can't miss events.  The Krewes that sponsor the St. Andrews Mardi Gras have grabbed a bit of something from other Carnival-type events. There are amusement rides, food & beverage vendors, special performances, a Kid's Parade, a Pet Parade, even a Gasparilla-style Pirate Invasion! 

For more information on this event, visit their website:
http://www.saintandrewsmardigras.com   (right click to open in new window)   

Both Mardi Gras celebrations are more family-centered than the raucous street party in New Orleans!

Can't make New Orleans for Mardi Gras? Then give Panama City Beach a try!

Held in late-January each year.