Mardi Gras in New Mexico

It may be the hottest Mardi Gras party this side of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The Scottish Rite Center is playing host to the Friends of Folk Art’s costumed ball and dance party benefiting the Museum of International Folk Art’s educational programs and exhibits.

Adobo Catering will serve hors d’oeuvres and the Partizani Brass Band will deliver the music. Traditional New Orleans fare will include gumbo, shrimp, beignets, a Big Easy cocktail, and King Cake, which hides a figure, usually the Christ child. The person who finds it in their piece wins a prize. The extravaganza winds down at 8 p.m., but it is immediately followed by a dance party hosted by JJ and the Hooligans. Tickets can be purchased for the dance party alone ($50).

5:30 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, Scottish Rite Center, 463 Paseo de Peralta, $175, 505-982-4415, santafescottishrite.org or internationalfolkart.org — Spencer Fordin