Four Fun Spots to Celebrate Mardi Gras -- That Aren't New Orleans

New Orleans may be ground-zero for Mardi Gras celebrations, but in case your travel nursing assignment isn't in Louisiana on Fat Tuesday, there are still plenty of places to enjoy the season. You may even find yourself with a slice of King Cake ... and the good fortune to be the one to find the tiny toy baby inside.

Buffalo, New York

Believe it or not, Buffalo New York hosts one of the biggest Mardi Gras celebrations in the northeast. As you prepare for the Lenten season, you can feel good about this party, knowing that many venues contribute a portion of the proceeds to a worthy charity, Autism Services.

Denver, Colorado

Maybe the Mile High City does not immediately spring to mind when you think of Mardi Gras. But Denverites have never run away from a good time.  On Fat Tuesday, Market Street turns into Denver's version of Bourbon Street, and the residents get ready to do a little personal penance in the days to come.

Pensacola, Florida

While the Sunshine State generally doesn't go wild (at least no wilder than usual) at Mardi Gras, the residents of Pensacola and have celebrated the holiday since 1874. Pensacola's Grand Mardi Gras Parade is a major annual event, including 6,000 participants and more than 100,000 spectators.

St. Louis, Missouri

Given St. Louis' historical ties to France, it makes sense that one of the nation’s biggest (non-NOLA) Mardi Gras celebrations takes place in this Missouri city. French customs and traditions live on here  and the Soulard District is home to a rollicking Mardi Gras fete.