Lynda Evjen (left) and Sandra Farris try a mask on a statue at
Villa Montalvo in preparation for this weekend's Mardi Gras Party '96.
The annual celebration known as Mardi Gras isn't limited to New Orleans. This year, the Villa Montalvo Center for the Arts will host its Mardi Gras Party '96 on Feb. 24 at Villa Montalvo.
Cocktails, costumes, New Orleans-style food, dancing and other entertainment are planned. The festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. with cocktails in the Carriage House, followed by dinner in the villa. The Magnolia Jazz Band and the Li'l Big Band will provide music for dancing. To add to the entertainment, a psychic, a caricaturist, a numerologist and a handwriting analyst will demonstrate their talents. Contests for trips, dinners and other prizes will also be held.
Participants are encouraged to dress casually, adopt a New Orleans riverboat style or wear a costume. All proceeds benefit the arts at Villa Montalvo. Cost is $75 per person for open seating. A limited number of reserved tables of 10 will be available for $1,000. Valet parking is planned.
This year, the Mardi Gras replaces Villa Montalvo's annual Valentine Ball, which will return in 1997.
For information or reservations, call 741-3421, ext. 306.
This article appeared in the Saratoga News, February 21, 1996.
©1996 Metro Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved