Event

Gumbo Connect

Friday, October 30, 2026
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Allen Neighborhood Center
1611 E. Kalamazoo Street
Lansing, MI 48912

Cher, You Family Here!

Come enjoy some delicious gumbo, meet new people, and discover what’s cooking for Mardi Gras La’MI’ in 2027!

We’re bringing the flava of the South to the North, and we want YOU to be part of the krewe!

Come hungry, bring a friend, and let’s get connected!

Community Building Activities

Family-Friendly Activities

Interactive Games: Set up games and activities that incorporate both Mardi Gras and Michigan themes, such as a “Great Lakes Fishing” game with a Mardi Gras twist.
Children’s Parade: Organize a mini-parade for children, where they can dress up and participate in a safe, fun environment.

Cultural Exchange

Guest Speakers: Invite speakers from Louisiana to share their experiences and traditions, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Mardi Gras.
Local Historians: Feature local historians who can talk about Lansing’s heritage and how it connects to the broader narrative of American culture.

Collaborative Art Projects

Community Mural: Create a large mural that combines symbols and imagery from both Louisiana and Lansing, with contributions from local artists and festival-goers.
Art Installations: Commission art installations that celebrate the fusion of both cultures, placed around the festival grounds.

Fusion Parade

Mardi Gras Floats with Michigan Themes:

Design floats that combine Mardi Gras aesthetics with elements of Michigan culture, such as the Great Lakes, local wildlife, and Lansing landmarks.

Local Marching Bands and Louisiana Brass Bands

Feature performances by both local high school and college marching bands, as well as traditional Louisiana brass bands.

Cultural Performances

Lansing and Louisiana Music Fusion

Host performances that blend Michigan’s musical styles (like Motown and folk) with Louisiana jazz, zydeco, and blues.

Dance Showcases:

Include dance troupes performing both Cajun dances and Michigan-inspired routines.

Food Festival

Fusion Cuisine

Offer dishes that blend Louisiana flavors with Michigan ingredients, such as Cajun-spiced Great Lakes fish or jambalaya with locally sourced vegetables.

Local and Louisiana Food Vendors:

Invite food vendors from Louisiana and local Lansing restaurants to offer a diverse culinary experience.

Art and Craft Activities

Mask Making with Local Materials

Host workshops where participants can create traditional Mardi Gras masks using materials sourced from Michigan, such as local feathers and beads.

Crafts Reflecting Both Cultures:

Offer activities like bead-stringing with Michigan-themed charms or painting scenes that depict both Lansing and New Orleans.

Educational Workshops

History and Heritage Sessions

Provide lectures and interactive sessions on the history of Mardi Gras and Lansing’s heritage, highlighting similarities and differences.

Cultural Exchange Programs

Organize discussions and storytelling sessions featuring residents from both regions sharing their cultural traditions.

Community Involvement

Parade Participation

Encourage local schools, community groups, and organizations to participate in the parade with floats and costumes that reflect both Lansing and Louisiana themes.

Volunteer Opportunities

Engage the community in volunteering for event preparation, ensuring a collaborative effort.