Blues society plans Mardi Gras ball

Flathead Valley Blues Society and Tamarack Brewing Co. Alehouse and Grill are teaming up to present a Mardi Gras-themed event in Somers.

The Mardi Gras Dinner, Dance and Costume Ball takes place from 6-11 p.m. Feb. 9 at The Rack Event Center, 5480 U.S. 93 S., Somers (formerly Fazooli’s).

“The Saturday before Fat Tuesday is a traditional Mardi Gras weekend in New Orleans,” Steve Kelley of the blues society wrote in an email. “We say save the travel expense and experience it here this year.”

The event includes Louisiana and Cajun fare by the Tamarack Grill and live music. The Can’t Hardly Playboys will open the show, followed by the headlining Red Hot Blue Chips.

The Red Hot Blue Chips formed in 2007 to headline the Somers Cajun Street Dance. The band was so well received it went on to tour the state that year, playing concerts and festivals. The group plays a high-energy mix of Cajun, zydeco and “Bluedeco,” a blues-zydeco hybrid.

The all-star band includes members of Kelley’s group, Flathead favorites Big Daddy and the Blue Notes; Connie Deeble on accordion and vocals; singer-songwriter Kate McLoughlin; Marshall Noice on rubboard; Don Caverly on drums; and David Griffith on Hammond organ, keyboard, mandolin and guitar.

In addition to the music and dinner, the party includes a costume contest and crowning of the king and queen of Mardi Gras.

Call 857-3119 for additional information.