Merchants in Dayton, Tenn., hope to match the merriment, if not the timing, of the Carnival season at MainStreet Mardi Gras on Saturday.
From 3 to 6 p.m. in the downtown district, musicians and artists will showcase their talents, and vendors will offer food and games. A DJ will spin hits to set the party mood. Hats, beads, masks and related merchandise will be for sale.
To allow space for the street party, Market Street will be closed from Main to Second streets.
From 6 to 9 p.m., the party moves to the Magnolia House, 656 Market St., for Sip & Sample, offering five food and beverage pairings.
Admission to the street party is free. Tickets to Sip & Sample are $25 per person and must be purchased in advance. Payment may be made via a PayPal link at www.mainstreetdayton.org or by calling 423-775-9847.