Usually, I try to start this column with some catchy story, or by (loosely) connecting our lives in the bars to current events. A friend recently told me I have done so ad nauseam lately, talking about bars being “hubs of activism” in the post-Proposition 8 era. This week, I noticed how much seems to be going on around town, so I thought I would delve right into some of my hot picks for the next couple weeks – not wasting any space attempting humor. So let’s go!

This time of year is particularly exciting, as we are just days away from the annual drunk, breast and penis flashing extravaganza known as Mardi Gras. Fat Tuesday is next week on Feb. 24, but the fun began yesterday! Naturally, Bourbon Street, San Diego’s New Orleans themed-bar, is the ultimate place to celebrate Mardi Gras. The bar began it’s annual 7 Days of Decadence parties last night and they will continue through Fat Tuesday. Events include Jonathan Hale’s popular Exposed Truth-or-Dare contest; performances by Aerial Revolution Acrobats; a ladies go-go contest; booty-shaking contest; and beads thrown from the balcony all night long on Fat Tuesday. Lotus Vodka drinks will be half price, and drink specials on flavored Smirnoff beverages will be offered all week long. Bourbon Street is the closest thing we have in San Diego to actually feeling like we are in New Orleans, so I highly recommend this spot for your Mardi Gras celebration. Bourbon Street is located at 4612 Park Blvd. in University Heights. For more information, check out www.bourbonstreetsd.com.

Down in Hillcrest, the annual Hillcrest Mardi Gras is entering its eighth year of celebrating the glitz, glamour and gluttony of Fat Tuesday. Everyone 21 years and older should check out this neighborhood street party, which I am told is going to be just as fabulous as ever. The event will include magical street performers, food, drinks and, of course, beads. There will also be a dance tent with a laser light show and other spectacular sights. The event will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. starting on University Avenue at Fourth Avenue. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door with VIP packages available. All proceeds from the event will support community improvement through the Hillcrest Association and the GSDBA Foundation. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.hillcrestmardigras.org.

This Saturday night, Numbers will host it’s popular monthly Loaded party. If you have not been to Numbers in awhile, Loaded Saturdays are definitely the night to go. As is so great about Numbers, there are two dance floors, with Resident DJ Bizzy J bumpin’ hip hop in the front room, while DJ Nikno (of Rich’s) plays pop and dance remixes on the main floor. The go-go boys are hot, too! Also, here are two reasons to get there early: 1) Cover is only $4 before 11 p.m.; and 2) this night gets packed – avoid the line! Numbers is located at 3811 Park Blvd.

While the boys are down the street at Numbers on Saturday, the men will be back at Rich’s for the monthly L.L. Bear Night. The party begins at 9:30 p.m. and DJ Derek spins. L.L. Bear is always filled with all sorts of hot men (big and small) and generally draws a very friendly crowd. Before you pass judgment on “bear night” check it out – you might be surprised. I certainly would not be classified as a “bear,” but it’s nice to cuddle up next to one sometimes. Rich’s is located at 1051 University Ave. in Hillcrest. For more information, visit www.richssandiego.com.

For something different, head over to the Brass Rail on Thursday, Feb. 26. The bar hosts the Hillcrest Comedy Stop every fourth Thursday at 8:30 p.m. Big Gay Joe is the host and this month’s show will include performances by Sam Tripoli and Vicki Barbolak. Bottle service and table reservations are available for the event. For more information, check out www.brassrailsd.com.

And after all this partying, a relaxing Sunday brunch is always nice. Universal Hillcrest and Dish host Relapse Sundays starting at 9 a.m. (I don’t imagine many of you are up that early, but when you do get up the staff at Universal and Dish are waiting for you). Universal’s resident DJ Schoeny plays from noon to 4 p.m. and the brunch menu is served until 5 p.m. The Mimosas are just $1 each! Universal Hillcrest is located at 1202 University Ave. For more information, visit www.universalhillcrest.com.

Keep having fun out there and always remember to play it safe!