Get ready for a joyful evening of music, food, and community as we gather once again for one of James Bay United Church’s most beloved annual traditions — Shrove Tuesday, celebrated in true Mardi Gras style!
Each year, this festive evening brings neighbours together to share pancakes, laughter, and music before the season of Lent begins. Whether you come for the parade, the pancakes, the jazz, or simply because it’s February and we all need a good party — you are warmly welcome.
5:00 – 5:30 pm | Parade Starts at Thrifty’s
We’ll begin the festivities with a New Orleans–style Dixieland parade, marching from Thrifty Foods down Menzies Street to James Bay United Church.
Put on your beads, grab a mask, and join the fun — march with us or enjoy the music as we make our way to the church!
5:30 – 6:45 pm | James Bay United Church, Lower Hall
After the parade, gather at the Lower Hall of our church for a classic Shrove Tuesday pancake supper with all the fixings. Shrove Tuesday (also known as Pancake Day) is the day before Lent begins and has long been a time for feasting and fellowship.
During the supper, Brooke Maxwell will be entertaining us on the piano downstairs, while upstairs in the Sanctuary Greg Shea keeps the jazz flowing — so feel free to wander between floors, eat, listen, and soak up the atmosphere before the main show begins at 7:00 pm. (A friendly note: in recent weeks Tuesday Night Jazz seats have been fully taken as early as 6:30!)
Suggested donation:
$6 per person
$12 per family
Everyone is welcome — no one is turned away.
7:00 – 8:30 pm | James Bay United Church, Sanctuary
The evening wouldn’t be complete without a Tuesday Night Jazz Mardi Gras Concert!
Expect joyful, high-energy New Orleans–style jazz that will lift spirits and keep toes tapping.
On this night, trumpeter Daniel Lapp returns to join us for a very special All-Star traditional jazz party — a Shrove Tuesday celebration like no other! An outstanding septet brings the sound of New Orleans to life, also featuring special guest trombonist Brad Shigeta, clarinettist Al Pease, pianist Toni Blodgett, bassist Scott White, guitarist Avram McCagherty, and drummer Kelby MacNayr.
Come early, enjoy the pancakes and music throughout the building, then settle in for a festive Mardi Gras night together.
Suggested donation: $20, but all are welcome regardless of financial means.