There won't be much time to recoup from Mardi Gras madness as New Orleans' penchant for celebration continues all month long at Audubon Zoo.

Special events featuring music, food, dance and crafts are scheduled at the zoo to celebrate Black History Month in style.

"Audubon Nature Institute is pleased to offer myriad Black History Month activities again this year that are fun and engaging for the entire family, " said Nannette Smith, director of community relations. "We always receive positive feedback from visitors and schoolchildren about our festivities, so we are excited about this year's schedule."

Along with visiting the animals this weekend, check out the fifth year of "Voices in the Oaks, " a high-energy, gospel celebration. This year's event features New Orleans' very own Shades of Praise as well as choirs from Good Shepherd School, Pilgrim Baptist Church and Worship Squad. The concert begins Saturday at noon on the Capital One Stage.

On Feb. 16, at "Band Together, " some of the city's top marching bands will gather for a showcase of the region's most talented bands. Then, on Feb. 23, the fourth annual "Stomp at the Zoo" will feature college fraternity/sorority members competing for $4,000 in prizes in a fast-paced step challenge that blends drills, acrobats, athletics and chanting. To close out the celebration, the zoo will host "Soul Fest" on March 1 and 2.

"Soul Fest" will feature Najee, George Porter Jr. & Runnin' Pardners, James Rivers, the Soul Rebels, along with locally made crafts and free health screenings.

This article was provided by: Nola
Written by: Maria Montoya