You are invited to join us for our 25th Anniversary Mardi Gras Gala on Saturday, February 10th. Whether 2024 would be your first or your 25th Mardi Gras, we are excited to share an evening of fine food, fundraising and fun!  Have questions?  Please see below for some quick FAQ’s. 

• What is Mardi Gras? It is a fundraising gala on the last Saturday before Lent begins.  It is modeled after the Mardi-Gras celebrations around the world that focus on a last celebration in preparation for the more reflective weeks of Lent.  We connect with friends, celebrate together and raise money for St. Stephen’s Church and School.  
• When?  Saturday, Feb 10, 2024-Doors open at 5:15 (but you can come after 5 pm Mass)
• Where? At St. Stephens!  The gala is in the FCC with a big silent auction set up in the south hallway and the Narthex.
• Menu?  Appetizers to start the evening.  Catered dinner from Buona Sera Ristorante: Salad, Chicken Marsala, vegetable medley, and pasta.  To round out the meal, there is sumptuous dessert and coffee. 
• What about drinks? Included with the meal for a table of 8 is a bottle each of red and white wine, picked to complement the meal.  Cash bars will have a selection of beer, wine, soft drinks and some mixed drinks.
• Dress?  The vibe is celebratory and a little bit elegant, and we want you to be comfortable so wear whatever you consider to be dressed-up attire.
• Who should attend?  Adults 21 +
• Photo Booth?  YES – until 8 pm, and it’s free
• How can I help? There are lots of ways!  Donate an auction item, volunteer, sponsor a part of the event with a donation, buy a Best of the Live Raffle ticket, pray for a successful and fun event.
• What is the Wall of Wine? The wall of wine has been a popular item for years and it’s a great way to contribute to the event.  We are seeking bottles of wine valued at $15 or more and hope to have 100 bottles total. 
• What is the Best of the Live Raffle?  It is a raffle that includes 4 or 5 items from our live auction.  When you buy the ticket, you mark which item you want if your name is drawn.  One winner is drawn at Mardi Gras and wins the prize they chose.  The other items stay in the Live Auction.  Buy tickets after Masses Feb 3-4, in the Parish Office and at Mardi Gras! 
• Why attend Mardi Gras?  To  connect with others, support our parish, all the ministries and outreach needs that the parish supports and celebrate!  It is always filled with fun, faith, delicious food and a nice night out in the middle of Minnesota winter.