Northbridge Mall is hosting a last hurrah before Lent begins with a Mardi Gras celebration Tuesday.

The mall held its first celebration last year and it was well received, said Pam Folkens, marketing director.

It all begins at 6 p.m. with a parade in the hall in front of Herberger’s. People can either join the parade or catch the toys, candy and beads that will be thrown out. There will be prizes, including Chanhassen Dinner Theatre tickets and gift certificates, for the best costumes. Jay Paul of Power 96 will be judging the contest.

“Anything goes with Mardi Gras,” Folkens said.

Beginning at 6:30 p.m., there will be a free sampling of products from Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen. People can try salsa, Southwestern dip, spinach dip, dill dip and Casa Zamora hot sauce.

“It’s a nice sampling of local products,” Folkens said.

There will also be free samples of king cake from Piggy Blues Bar-B-Q. Ron Meyer, owner of Piggy Blues, said king cake is a braided sweet bread with a filling decorated with glazes.

“People loved it last year,” he said.

The Misty River Band will play from 6:30 to 8 p.m. near the food court. The band, led by Todd Utpadel, plays music from the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s.

“There will be room to dance,” Folkens said.

In addition, there will be special prices on food from food court merchants.