An Authentic Carnivale Experience

Mardi Gras Comes Alive in this Unforgettable Retreat Full of Creativity, Connection, and Celebration!

Join Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts for our upcoming ‘Mardi Gras in Manitou’ Creative Retreat, a FOUR DAY celebration of Louisiana-inspired art, cuisine, and community - right here in Manitou Springs!

Hosted by acclaimed visual artist and chef Jamar Duvol Pierre, this one-of-a-kind retreat invites you and your partner—whether a lover, friend, sibling, or family member-to immerse yourselves in the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!

Retreat Itinerary

Mardi Gras Celebration Day!

Morning Yoga
Start your day with an optional yoga session to center your mind and body.

Continental Breakfast
It’s officially Mardi Gras Day! Join us for a farm-fresh continental breakfast.

Free Time Options
Relax at the Onaledge House, schedule a tarot reading, or explore downtown Manitou Springs as we prepare for the day’s festivities.

Daytime Parade
Journey into downtown Manitou Springs and join the annual Manitou Carnivale Parade, where it’s tradition to march down the avenue to celebrate Mardi Gras in true fun and funky color that Manitou is known for! Wear your newly-crafted masks and dress in costume to truly get in the spirit of the holiday!

Gumbo Dinner & Musical Performance
Indulge in a soulful gumbo supper crafted by host Jamar and the Smokebrush Kitchen crew. Enjoy and evening of live music, dancing, and the joy of Mardi Gras spirit in the cozy, historic setting of Onaledge.