2026 Fat Tuesday – Tuesday, Feb. 17
Event: Krewe of Janus’s Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday Celebration
Location: Krewe of Janus Krewe Den, 901 Louisville Ave, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
Time: 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. CST

Dinner Dates
Italian is the ultimate language of love, and we have it right here in the Twin Cities! In Monroe, ask the waiter at Genusa’s Italian Restaurant about their dishes that will give your night an extra romantic touch, plus their fresh marinara sauce. Geno’s Italian Restaurant is another Monroe dine-in restaurant where you and your partner can enjoy an evening of delightful dishes before the night ends.

Take a Sip
You and your partner can get your hands on a glass of wine and take cozy sips at ThirstyFarmer in Calhoun, where you can also take a bite of heavy hors d’oeuvres, shop and listen to live music. Stop by the Tasting Room at Landry Vineyards in West Monroe for a special glass for the two of you and ask about touring their barrel room. In West Monroe, visit the first meadery in Louisiana that’s owned by a veteran called Two Warriors Meadery. The meadery is having a special Mead Making Class at 10am on Valentine’s Day for couples.

Romantic Essentials
Feel romantic with items that you can gift your partner from local shopping businesses like The Muffin Tin in Monroe, Magnolia Alley and Max Porter Provisions in Downtown West Monroe and Petals and Pearls in Monroe over the weekend.

Sing Your Heart Out
Share the mic with your sweetheart at ULTRA Karaoke Bar & Lounge in West Monroe, Arena Billiards Bar & Grill in West Monroe or Chunk It Axe Games (formerly Savage Axe) in Monroe! Even if neither one of you can’t sing, a nice duet or solo can put an extra romantic touch on your extended weekend.

Where to Stay
Plan your stay in Downtown Monroe at The Hotel Monroe, named as one of the 15 Most Romantic Getaways in Louisiana for Couples by The Knot. Get a view of the Ouachita River from your room, decorated with local artwork and Northeast Louisiana’s natural beauty. Visit the Star Bar for upscale experience with craft cocktails and rooftop views of downtown. For the bed and breakfast lovers, book your stay with the Hamilton House Inn in West Monroe. This two-story historic building of luxury comfort features five bedrooms with their own private bathrooms, plus a serving of fresh breakfast made each morning. The bed and breakfast also fulfill special requests for breakfast if notified in advance.


Spend your extended romantic weekend in Ouachita Parish full of shopping, wine and dining and end by celebrating Fat Tuesday with the Krewe of Janus!