Pearson Jones, Asst. Style Editor

Whether you call it Fat Tuesday, Shrove Tuesday or Mardi Gras, everyone knows that the day before the Lenten season is reserved for some of the most outlandish festivities. George Mason University is looking to honor this ritual.

Homecoming Week is upon us once again and it’s bringing with it the traditions, music and spirit of Bourbon Street. This year’s theme is Mardi Gras, an idea inspired by the student Program Board’s slogan “Unmasque Your Spirit.”

Monday 2/15
Mardi Gras Madness 12:30 p.m. JC Atrium
A spinoff of Mason Madness, Mardi Gras Madness will be this year’s Homecoming Pep Rally featuring the homecoming pageant contestants, the Green Machine pep bad and Mason dignitaries.

“The Big Easy” Pageant 8 p.m. Dewberry Hall
Come check out this year’s pageant contestants as they strut their stuff to earn your vote.

Tuesday 2/16
Can-Can for Cans 3:30-4:30 p.m. SUB II Ballroom
Watch student teams construct can-structions. The event will include students who will build structures out of non-perishable cans that will later be donated to a local food bank.

Show Us Your Talent 8 p.m. Dewberry Hall
Mason’s got talent and a lot of students are willing to prove it. Come out and watch Mason’s most talented students entertain the student body.

Wednesday 2/17
Lip-Syncing on the Bayou 8 p.m. Dewberry Hall
Mason’s first ever lip-syncing competition will feature students as their favorite stars as they honor the music that they created. No singing talent required.

Thursday 2/18
Bourbon Street Komedy Jam 8 p.m. SUB II Ballroom
The Homecoming Komedy show will feature the fabulous comedic styling’s of Dan Ahdoot and Arvin Mitchell.

Friday 2/19
Canal Street Concert with Safety Suit 8 p.m. JC Atrium
This year’s homecoming concert is proving to be a huge event and it’s free. This year’s concert will be headlined by the VH-1 band The Safety Suit.

The Masquerade Affair 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sub II Ballroom (Dance Party)
This concert after-party features DJ 5’9”. There will also be casino games going all night as well.

Saturday 2/20
Homecoming Parade 5 p.m. East Side of Patriot Circle. (Parade starts from Rappahannock parking deck)
In the spirit of Mardi Gras, Mason brings the celebration of homecoming to the streets.

Block Party 5:30-7:30 p.m. Parking Lot A
Heated tents will be put up so students can wander around and hangout with friends as Mardi Gras Madness unfolds.