COVINGTON — Despite cancellation of a public Mardi Gras this year, many MainStrasse bars and restaurants won't be giving up the annual celebration.

        A consortium of eight bars and restaurants in the German-themed village is moving the annual party indoors.

        Jillian's entertainment complex also is offering its version of the pre-Lenten celebration within its 86,000-square-foot entertainment complex at 1200 Jillian's Way.

        That event will include an indoor parade, Cajun food, live music and beads, said Mike Grosser, vice president of Jillian's Entertainment Corp.

        Both celebrations will take place Feb. 23 and 24.

        “There will be Cajun food, drinks and beads, and live entertainment throughout the village,” said Amy Kummler, co-owner of the Strasse Haus.

        However, unlike past Mardi Gras celebrations, there won't be any street closings, and all activities will take place within the bars and restaurants, she said.

        “If they do that, they won't need a permit from (the city),” Assistant City Manager Tom Steidel said Monday.

        Last week, Covington City Manager Greg Jarvis denied the MainStrasse Village Association's application for a special event permit for Mardi Gras, citing liability concerns. However, city officials did not rule out the possibility of future Mardi Gras parties, provided residents' concerns are addressed.

        The 2000 Mardi Gras celebration attracted a record 60,000 revelers — triple the usual number — and prompted complaints about trash, public nudity, underage drinking and public urination.

        “I think when you get that many people in the streets, you can't control people's behavior,” said Sandy Arnold.

        The MainStrasse resident collected 200 signatures of Mardi Gras opponents, after last year's rowdy party.

        However, Mrs. Arnold said she has no problem with the celebration, as proposed this year.

        “Ticket presales will start next week at participating establishments,” Ms. Kummler said. For $10 a night, party-goers can get into the eight bars and restaurants: Mulligan's, Tracy's, Rosie's Tavern, Pachinko, Chez Nora, The Village Pub, The Strasse Haus and the Cock and Bull English Pub.

        By selling advance tickets, the participating businesses will be able to better control crowds, Ms. Kummler said.

        Each establishment also will have extra security on hand those nights to prevent under-age drinking and to keep alcoholic drinks within the bars and restaurants.

        “Each bar will have extra security to check IDs and to make sure there's no mayhem like last year,” Ms. Kummler said.

        Past Mardi Gras revelers have spent money on food, beverages, souvenirs, parking, and gasoline in and around the MainStrasse area, and profits from the celebration have helped pay for public improvements in the village, said Paul Wolgin, operations director for the MainStrasse Village Association.

        “All the hotels were filled up, and the fast-food restaurants were busy,” Ms. Kummler said. “Mardi Gras put Covington on the map.”

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