Lutsen Bringing Mardi Gras To The Frozen North Feb. 20-22

It's Mardi Gras Carnival Time at Lutsen Mountains the weekend of Feb. 20-22. Who says you need to head to New Orleans to savor the spirit and flavor of a good "old fashioned" Mardi Gras? Lutsen, the Heartland's largest ski resort, is bringing it to the frozen shores of Lake Superior along Minnesota's Arrowhead.

Get ready for a rocking good time and dust off the beads. It's time to celebrate the famed Mardi Gras, but in Arrowhead style. There will be plenty of Creole food and drink specials flowing and, of course, a bead contest and costume ball; it wouldn't be Mardi Gras without them. The Jack Brass Band, the only New Orleans style brass band in Minneapolis, will be laying down a funky grove at Papa Charlie's Saturday night. It will be a mix of New Orleans jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, funk, and reggae.

If that doesn't make you get up and dance, you might as well head to bed with a warm glass of milk. Come dressed for the Masquerade Ball or grab a mask at Papa's. Everyone gets three strands of beads and will have the chance to earn more with games, contests, and trading; the most beads win a prize.

Room rates can start as low as $99 per person, based on quad occupancy, for two nights and two days of skiing. Check out the online lodging specials. The skiing and riding have been fantastic since November.