When: From February 2 through February 13, 2018
This Gulf Coast city goes Texas big on Mardi Gras festivities, apparently stating to have the third largest celebration of its kind in the United States. With the first event happening in 1871, and put on by two rival Mardi Gras societies, this tradition went up and down in planning over time until 1985 when it was resorted to its full splendor. Galveston's 2018 edition will feature about 30-plus concerts, 22 parades (with three catering to families), 20 balcony parties, and five elegant masked balls. Just check on the festival schedule to see if you need to buy tickets, and then dress up in fun and flashy attire.