Mardi Gras season madness gets under way

In keeping with the tradition it celebrates, fun, food and live entertainment are on tap tonight at the annual Mardi Gras Ball presented by the Chattanooga Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women.

The black-tie affair by the nonprofit organization is scheduled from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. in the Imperial Ballroom of the Chattanooga Choo Choo, 1400 Market St.

Proceeds will fund scholarships and other community programs. Tickets are $35 per person, $350 for a table for 10. For ticket information, call 698-0029.

* Chattanooga Bach Choir is offering a limited-time discount on admission to its annual Mardi Gras Ball, scheduled Monday, March 7. Tickets purchased today will cost $90. Starting Saturday, the price rises to $100. Ticket sales end March 4.

Dubbed "Bourbon on Chestnut," the event begins at the Sheraton Read House, then moves via street parade to The Walden Club for dinner and dancing. The River City Red Hots will lead the jazz parade. The Booker T. Scruggs Ensemble will entertain during the four-course dinner. For information, call 877-9767; e-mail mardigrasmonday@yahoo.com; or visit www.chattanoogabachchoir.org.

* The Northshore Merchants Collective and the Delta Queen Hotel are teaming to present Pardi Gras aboard the historic riverboat. From noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 5, authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine and drinks will be served. Tickets are $15 (free for children under 12). Call 468-4500 for more information.

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