Are you on the lookout for something fun to do this weekend? Are you ready for second winter to wrap up? Us too. But we also have more good news. One of the biggest happenings within Shadyside is the celebration of Mardi Gras!

What better way to spend a truly amazing night out with friends than at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens? On Friday, March 1, the Party in the Tropics event will have a Mardi Gras theme and we’re very excited.

This event will surround you with the beautiful greenery and rushing waterfalls inside of Phipps. You’ll also have the chance to try sweet and savory morsels, indulge in unique cocktails and enjoy seasonal beer selections. Plus, you’ll be able to dance the night away with the live DJ.

Sounds like an awesome way to de-stress after a long week of work.

Curious about how Mardi Gras became the great celebration it’s known for today? Looks like great minds think alike. We were curious, too.

Many communities and cities are known to host great, fabulous parades in celebration of Mardi Gras. But, did you know the first American Mardi Gras took place in New Orleans in 1699?

The annual festival occurs the day before the Christian celebration of Lent. Mardi Gras is also known as Fat Tuesday or the last opportunity to eat rich foods before the fast of Lent begins.

Another fun fact that’s tied to Mardi Gras is this famous saying, “laissez les bon temps rouler” (pronounced lay-say le bon tom roo-lay). It means, “let the good times roll.”

It’s a very traditional thing to say during Mardi Gras so there’s a good chance you’ll hear it many times during your night out at Phipps

Now that you’re armed with some Mardi Gras trivia, we’ll give you the finer details of the Phipps event.  

The 4-hour party starts at 7 pm and is for anyone 21 years or older. Keep in mind the Party in the Tropics event is free with Phipps admission, but space is limited.  

Don’t forget to come with a mask and beads!

If you’re asking yourself, “What’s a cool date night idea?” or “What to do in Pittsburgh on a rainy day?” We have a few great ideas for you!

Did you know Shadyside is neighbors with some of the most prominent institutions within Pittsburgh? Phipps Conservatory, The Frick Pittsburgh, and Pittsburgh Center of the Arts have amazing exhibits. You can easily spend all day at these places.    

Here’s what you’ll find when you visit these exhibits this month!

Phipps Conservatory

Yes, technically it’s still winter, but Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early spring. We’re ready for gorgeous flowers and crisp spring air now!

Phipps Conservatory’s Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show is the perfect remedy to your springtime needs. We can smell the orchids already. Plus every Saturday and Sunday you can have the opportunity to learn more about the beautiful orchids and bonsai trees.

For details, ticket, and more –  Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show  

The Frick Pittsburgh

If you’re more of an art fan, The Frick’s current exhibit features a full-length society portrait of Mrs. Peacock from 1902. Who is Mrs. Peacock? She just happened to be a very notable figure in Pittsburgh during the 20th century. Use this link, Mrs. Peacock: A Gilded Age Portrait, to check out more of her story!

Street Photography to Surrealism: The Golden Age of Photography in France is another exhibit currently available to view at The Frick. This exhibit is showcasing several photographers working in France before 1945.

By the way, admission is free for both exhibits!

There’s much more to see at The Frick too. Dine at the cafe and experience contemporary, American cuisine in a picturesque environment.

Pittsburgh Center for the Arts

Pittsburgh Center for the Arts’ latest exhibit, Distilled, features 78 works by 46 artists. The amazing work is showcasing PF/PCA members, teaching artists, and staff.

You’ll experience the work of Seth LeDonne and Danny Devine. The formal gallery has been transformed into pop-up street art that invites the public to interact and engage with the work!

See featured artists and more – Distilled.

Just One More…

Now, what if you don’t feel like driving? Maser Galleries is right in our Shadyside neighborhood, just on Walnut Street! This hidden gem offers, “the largest inventory of paintings and limited edition works on canvas and paper in the city.”

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*Header image of The Frick Pittsburgh