The Northland Mardi Gras festival along the Flambeau River in Ladysmith is a four-day event featuring live music, community activities, carnival rides, food vendors, a car show, and a craft fair. This year, there will be a new addition: two days of competitive powerboat racing known as the Northland Mardi Gras Grand Prix, July 19 & 20. A unique highlight of the festival includes two nights of a Venetian Night Parade, complete with fireworks. Admission to the festival and the racing events is free.