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Get ready to catch some beads this weekend as the Mardi Gras Season hits full stride. Friday night starting at 7 p.m., throw up your hands at the Krewe of Artemis parade downtown. Saturday, the Baton Rouge Krewe Mystique and Krewe of Romany parades roll downtown at 2 p.m., followed at 6:30 p.m. by the Krewe of Orion parade. Bring your bags to fill with beads, doubloons and candy at these family-friendly parades.

As Valentine's Day draws near, you can join the West Baton Rouge Museum on Saturday at 1 p.m. for a truly sweet day. Children and adults will learn to make their own delicious treats as they hear all about the well-loved story, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Then, enjoy a showing of the classic 1971 film, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Free to the public.

If you like your Mardi Gras a little naughty, the lovely ladies of One Eyed Jack's in New Orleans gear up to throw their own party at the Spanish Moon on Saturday night. It's a night of titillating retro entertainment, with fire dancing, burlesque and magic.  9 p.m. Tickets are $10.