How to Celebrate Mardi Gras in Philly Without Leaving 8th Street

PHILADELPHIA — Can’t make it to the French Quarter this year? Don’t worry. The French Quarter has effectively moved to Center City.


How to Celebrate Mardi Gras in Philly Without Leaving 8th Street
How to Celebrate Mardi Gras in Philly Without Leaving 8th Street

Craftsman Row Saloon has launched its 6th Annual Mardi Gras Pop-Up Experience,and the transformation is absolute.The owners have scrubbed every trace of their famous Christmas pop-up and replaced it with thousands of glittery beads,feathers,and masquerade masks.

Inside the Transformation

This isn't just a few streamers on the wall. The space has been reimagined as a immersive tribute to the Big Easy.

  • The Vibe: The dining room features a "Bourbon Street" aesthetic with hanging street signs, umbrellas suspended from the ceiling, and jazz instruments woven into the decor.
  • The Details: There is a "speakeasy" section draped in green, purple, and gold fabrics, and the exterior of the building is illuminated in Mardi Gras colors.
  • The Soundtrack: Forget the Top 40. The playlist is strictly NOLA jazz, brass band classics, and even a few Mummers favorites to keep it Philly.

"More Bling Than Ever"

"We went even more over the top," said co-owner George Tsiouris. "This is the most elaborate and the most decor we have ever done for Mardi Gras."

Whether you need a new profile picture or just want to escape the winter grey for a few hours of gold and purple, this is the most colorful spot in town right now.


The pop-up runs daily through Fat Tuesday (February 17). Reservations are highly recommended via OpenTable.