The 10th Annual Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Festival starts with a Pre-party on Thursday, February 16, from 8 p.m. to midnight at Henry Turner Jr.’s Listening Room. The main festival will be held on Saturday, February 18, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at North Boulevard Town Square.

This year’s festival lineup features blues, soul, R&B, reggae, gospel, jazz, pop/rock, spoken word and comedy. Artists expected to perform are Henry Turner Jr. & Flavor, The Listening Room All-Stars including Kelton ‘Nspire Harper, Owen Scott, Ervin “Maestro” Foster, Pastor Leon Hitchens, Larry “LZ” Dillon and comedian Eddie “Cool” Deemer. Visit the website for exact performance times and additional acts.

The Pre-party provides a sneak peek at some of the talent scheduled to play on the Town Lawn Stage. Admission is $25.00 in advance and $30.00 at the door. It includes a buffet and no-host bar. Henry Turner Jr.’s Listening Room is located at 2733 North Street in Baton Rouge, LA 70802. Performers expected to appear are Henry Turner Jr. & Flavor and the Listening Room All-Stars.

The main event features continuous live music, a vendor’s village and a food court. It’s a free, family-friendly event that allows lawn seating. Boulevard Town Square is located at 200 North Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70801. For more information on the Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Festival, including VIP packages with covered seating, food and drink tickets, please log on to www.batonrougemardigrasfestival.com.