Happy Mardi Gras!  If you’re looking for ways to celebrate around Los Angeles, Carolyn Fox, host of  the syndicated broadcast radio show, Carolyn Fox’s Hollywood Spotlight, has some ideas for you:

Amoeba Music in Hollywood.  Starting at 3 PM this afternoon, Amoeba Music will host a Mardi Gras party, complete with live music from Orgone and a DJ.  Bring your own musical instrument and play along with the traditional parade (or just pick up a mask and join the party.)  Plus, a portion of today’s proceeds (from ALL 3 stores + amoeba.com!) will be donated to Tipitina’s Foundation and the New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic to support the great works they do with artists in and around New Orleans.  6400 Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028 FREE

Olvera Street Children’s Workshops.  From 9 AM to 2 PM, the party for the kids is at Olvera Street.  Come here traditional Mexican and Caribbean music and see the crowning of Miss Olvera Street, the ambassador for Olvera Street.  Lots of family fun, including a prize for best costume.  125 Paseo De La Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012 FREE

Pearl’s Mardi Gras Masquerade Party.  It wouldn’t be Mardi Gras without a masquerade and Pearl’s Liquor Bar in West Hollywood is just the place.  They’ll even supply the masks, or you can bring your own. They be serving southern specialties like seafood broil and gumbo, in addition to the bar’s special drink of the evening, Pearl’s Hurricane. 8909 W. Sunset Blvd. in West Hollywood.

The Canyon Club.  The Canyon Club in Agoura is celebrating with a New Orleans-style festival, complete with Mardi Gras dancers, Cajun food and drink and featuring the New Orleans blues band Preston Smith. 28912 Roadside Drive Agoura Hills, CA 91301-3304 $19-$28

The Hotel Cafe.   If you’re looking for an intimate music venue to celebrate Fat Tuesday, check out the Hotel Cafe. in the Larchmont/Melrose area of Hollywood. The ROAMies, a husband and wife duo with an Americana sound, will perform a special Louisiana Mardi Gras-themed set. 1623 1 /2 North Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles. 21 and over. $10, no credit cards for entry at the door.

The Farmers Market.  From 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, The Farmer’s Market will mark its 25th annual Mardi Gras celebration. New Orleans and Zydeco music, strolling parade bands, activities for kids, bead-throwing, and much more! Authentic gumbo, jambalaya and other southern favorites including Dixie beer will be on tap. 3rd and Fairfax in Los Angeles. Free.

Laissez les bon temps rouler!