2026 Mardi Gras Ball: The Grand Finale of Chicago Ball Season
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | An Evening of Dance, Music & Celebration
The Mardi Gras Ball marks the grand finale of Chicago Ball Season, blending the rich traditions of Vienna, New Orleans, and Brazil for one spectacular night. Across the world, Mardi Gras is a time of revelry, music, and masked mystery, and in Vienna, it signals the final night of the winter ball season—a time to dance, celebrate, and bid farewell to the season in style.
And while hosting a ball on a Tuesday night may seem unconventional, Mardi Gras is no ordinary night. Over the years, we’ve found that many revel in the chance to break up their routine with an evening of elegance, indulgence, and pure joy. Step out of everyday life and into a world of rhythm, movement, and masked magic.
Choose Your Mardi Gras Experience:
This year, we’re offering three ways to celebrate, allowing you to tailor the night to your own rhythm:
Option 1: New Orleans Swing Class – $45 per person (15% off for members)
6:45 – 7:30 PM
Kick off the night with an electrifying swing dance lesson inspired by the streets of New Orleans. This high-energy style, known for its playful footwork and infectious rhythm, is deeply rooted in the jazz and blues culture of the Big Easy. Whether you’re new to swing or a seasoned dancer, this class will get you moving with the spirit of Mardi Gras.
Option 2: Brazilian Samba Class – $45 per person (15% off for members)
7:45 – 8:30 PM
Turn up the heat with a Brazilian Samba class—a dance that embodies joy, celebration, and the vibrant rhythms of Carnival. With its lively footwork, hip movements, and undeniable energy, Samba is a staple of Brazilian Mardi Gras celebrations, bringing people together in a swirl of movement and music.
Option 3: The Mardi Gras Ball Package – $80 per person (15% off for members)
Includes both dance classes, table seating, and Mardi Gras desserts.
For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the night, the Mardi Gras Ball Package offers the ultimate experience. Enjoy both dance classes, plus a reserved table seat to relax between dances, along with a selection of decadent Mardi Gras desserts.
Between and after classes, the dance floor will be open for social dancing, where you can practice your new moves, meet fellow dancers, and enjoy the festive energy of the final night of Chicago Ball Season.
A Night Steeped in Mardi Gras Tradition
Mardi Gras balls have long been a cornerstone of Carnival celebrations, dating back to medieval Europe before making their way to New Orleans and Brazil. These gatherings were once exclusive social events for high society, but over time, they evolved into celebrations of music, movement, and cultural fusion.
By combining New Orleans swing and Brazilian Samba, our Mardi Gras Masquerade pays homage to the global influences that have shaped this legendary night of revelry. Whether you’re swinging to the sounds of jazz or stepping into the pulse of Samba, you’re dancing in the spirit of Mardi Gras history.
Event Details:
• Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (Mardi Gras Night!)
• Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)
• New Orleans Swing Class: 6:45 – 7:30 PM
• Brazilian Samba Class: 7:45 – 8:30 PM
• Open dancing throughout the evening for those with ball tickets
• Location: Ballroom Dance Chicago | 4039B N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL
• Price:
• $45 per person per class (15% off for members)
• $80 per person for the Mardi Gras Ball Package (Includes both dance classes, table seating, social dancing, and Mardi Gras desserts)
• Age Requirement: 21+
• Attire: Formal / Black Tie Optional (and wear a masquerade mask if you’re so inclined)!
• BYOB: Bring your favorite beer or wine (no hard liquor, please).
Purchase Tickets
Celebrate, Dance & Make the Night Your Own
Whether you join us for swing, samba, or the full Mardi Gras Ball experience, this is your invitation to dance, celebrate, and close out Chicago Ball Season in unforgettable style.
So embrace the spirit of Mardi Gras, and let’s dance the night away!