Find plenty of free parking at the Judd Kendall VFW, located at 908 W. Jackson Ave. (PN File Photo)
Mardi Gras Day is Tues., Feb. 17, 2026. Also known as “Fat Tuesday,” the last day of the joyful Carnival season always falls the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent.
Beginning Fri., Feb. 20, and all during Lent, members of the Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873 will host its Friday Night Fish Fry in Kendall Hall from 4:30PM to 7:30PM, a popular way to “break bread” and share camaraderie, all to benefit local Veteran initiatives and other programs. (UPDATE! Click here for a link to James Hoch Photography with pictures from Feb. 20, 2026.)
Bead up to celebrate Mardi Gras in green, purple & gold
What’s more, the community is invited to a vibrant and festive post Mardi Gras Masquerade Celebration hosted by Chef Terrell Cole and Dark Horse Grill and Catering on Thurs., Feb. 26.
Experience the excitement of New Orleans with colorful decorations, lively music and traditional Mardi Gras fun—and all to benefit programs and services provided by Naperville Responds for Veterans.
“Wear your favorite mask or beads and get ready for an evening filled with entertainment, delicious food, and great company,” organizers say. “Don’t miss out on this spectacular night of fun, flavor and festivity.”
Tickets are $50 per person. Click here to reserve a spot. Doors open at 6PM at the Naperville VFW Post.
The Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873 is located at 908 Jackson Ave., just west of downtown Naperville.
Kendall Hall will serve up other events, too!
American Legion Post 43 dinners held on the third Saturday of the month continue through April beginning with a social hour at 6PM followed by dinner at 7PM.
The community is invited to the next dinner on Sat., Feb. 21. Cost of dinner is $15 for adults; $7 for ages 7-14; Free for ages 6 -0. Cash bar. Simply RSVP to kristen@junglesgroup.com.
The American Legion Dinner Socials also will be held Sat., March 21, and Sat., April 18.
A Pancake Breakfast also is planned from 8AM to 11:30AM Sun., Feb. 22, again hosted by the Sons of the American Legion. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for youngsters 12 and under. Always a fun time, come see who is flipping for flapjacks!
Looking ahead to Sat., Feb. 28, the American Legion Riders are set to host a Chili Dinner from 5 to 7PM to benefit Special Olympics. Tickets are $15. Note the scanner below to reserve seats at the table.
Thanks to all service men and women as well as first responders. Thanks for keeping the community safe.
Looking ahead…
Meanwhile, mark your calendar to attend the annual National Vietnam Veterans Day observance, planned this year to begin at 1PM Sun., March 29, in Veterans Park at 303 E. Gartner Road across from Grace United Methodist Church where parking will be available.
The Friday Fish Fry at the Judd Kendall VFW will continue through Lent from 4:30PM to 7:30PM, ending on April 3.
