Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, falls on March 4 this year, but some places already have the party started. The true meaning of Fat Tuesday is a day of eating and drinking rich or “fat” foods before fasting during the season of Lent on the Christian calendar. Although the event has Christian origins, people of all faiths from all over the world celebrate this night of food and fun and Denver is no different. Here’s where to celebrate Mardi Gras in Denver:

Denver Mardi Gras 2014 (2000 S. Colorado Blvd.; 720-936-2999)
Celebrate at Denver’s biggest party at Dave & Buster’s with the 4th annual Mardi Gras party on Saturday, March 1. This complete venue takeover features multiple rooms, video games, DJs and performers. Watch live performances from stilt walkers, tarot readers, masked dancers and more. Dress code is dress to impress and masks are encouraged, but not required. The party starts at 7 PM and cover is $10 for Bells and $20 for Blokes. Tables for up to eight guests can be reserved in advance. Visit the website for more information.

Mardi Gras Benefit (1420 Stout St; 303-339-6803)
Party with a purpose at this benefit at the Embassy Suites Downtown. Starting at 6 PM on Saturday, March 1, guests will enjoy live music, Cajun food, casino games, dueling pianos and the crowning or a Mardi Gras King and Queen. Tickets are $100 and proceeds benefit Qualistar Colorado. Tickets can be purchased online.

Bayou Bob’s (1635 Glenarm Pl.; 303-573-6828)
At Bayou Bob’s near the 16th Street Mall, every Tuesday is Fat Tuesday so March 4 might not be all that different. Enjoy lunch entrees for $5 and $2.50 Hurricanes all day. Mardi Gras night brings on live music and this Louisiana bar in Colorado also serves Abita beers.

Club Vinyl (1082 Broadway; 303-832-8628)
The hottest club in town celebrates Fat Tuesday on March 4 with DJ Dave Peacock starting at 9 PM. Cover is $5 for guys and ladies are free. Enjoy $1 wells, $5 Cirocs and $4 Hurricanes. There is a “most beads” contest with a $100 cash prizes.

Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret (16th Street Mall at Arapahoe; 303-293-0075)
Anytime at Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret is a good time, but Mardi Gras will have you dancing in your seat. Celebrate Fat Tuesday on March 4 with Bella Diva Dance’s Carnivale Glitz & Glam Extravagan. Dance troupe Bella Diva will shake their booties and rattle their feathers and sequins all over the place. Guests who come in Mardi Gras costume will be entered into a contest for tickets to a future show. The Clocktower will also serve up some special New Orleans inspired cocktails. Tickets only $15 and can be purchased online.

Golden Mardi Gras Casino (300 Main Street, Blackhawk; 303-582-5600)
Since Mardi Gras is typically a night of debauchery, why not go all out and hit the casino? The Golden Mardi Gras Casino in Blackhawk is where Mardi Gras never stops. With more than 650 video machines, nine blackjack tables, two craps tables and one roulette wheel, there is plenty of action to be had. Guests will also find plenty of dining options with the Bourbon Street Buffet, Jester Bar and Masquerade Lounge. Parking is free and it’s only 20 minutes from Denver.