It's a party pop quiz.

In what year was Mardi Gras, the pre-Lenton season of merrymaking, first celebrated in Galveston?

Answer: 1867.

How does Galveston's celebration rank on the Mardi Gras party meter?

Answer: It's the third largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States.

How many Mardi Gras parades are planned for 2014?

Answer: 24. Among them are two children's processions, a dog and cat parade, an umbrella march and a golf cart motorcade.

And, most importantly, when is Mardi Gras?

Answer: Feb. 21-March 4, which is known as Fat Tuesday.

Galveston is home to 16 krewes, including its oldest, the Knights of Momus, which was founded in 1871. The krewes organize the Mardi Gras parades and parties.

Highlights of the two-week celebration include:

1 George P. Mitchell Mardi Gras Parade at 7 p.m. Feb. 21

1 Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade at 8 p.m. Feb. 21

1 Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Kick-off Parade at noon Feb. 22

1 Zaniest Golf Cart & Art Car Parade at 4 p.m. Feb. 22

1 A concert headlined by country crooner Uncle Kracker at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 22

1 Krewe of Gambrinus Parade at 6 p.m. Feb. 22

1 A street dance with Los Angeles-based DJ Clockwork at 11 p.m. Feb. 28

1 Krewe d'Esprit Rosaire Parade at 11 a.m. March 1

1 Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade at 6:30 p.m. March 1

1 Tremont House 30th Annual Mardi Gras Ball and Parade Viewing Party 6 p.m.-midnight March 1

1 Krewe of Barkus& Meoux Parade at 1 p.m. March 2

1 Mardi Gras Children's Parade at 2 p.m. March 2

1 Krewe of Aquarius Fat Tuesday Parade at 6:30 p.m. March 4

Several of Galveston's parades, including the Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Kick-off Parade and the Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade, roll along the seawall and are free to view.

Other festivities, including many of the parades, are within what organizers call the Uptown Entertainment District. The entertainment district is 10 blocks of Strand and Mechanic streets in Galveston's historic downtown. Admission to the entertainment district during the weekends' events is $17 at the gate.

For a different view of Mardi Gras, consider joining one of the nearly two dozen balcony parties that will be held in the entertainment district. Most will offer live music, a cash bar and the chance to tease strollers with beads. Some provide food. Tickets range from $20 for the Krewe of Babalu Fat Tuesday party to $125 for the Z Krewe Zestival, which includes a catered meal.

Many of the krewe parties and balls are open to the public for a price. Find a list of krewe parties at mardigrasgalveston.com.

One of the most posh events during Mardi Gras season will be the Tremont House 30th Annual Mardi Gras Ball on March 1. The theme of the party is "Pearls and Prohibition." Expect three bands for dancing, including the retro-swing band Cherry Poppin' Daddies, prime viewing of the Momus parade, dinner and breakfast buffets and open bar. Tickets are $200. Packages that include accommodations and ball tickets are available. Call 409-763-0300 to book.

Meanwhile, other Galveston hotels are offering special promotions that include Mardi Gras admission with an overnight stay. Find a list at mardigrasgalveston.com.

While you're on the island, check out the latest foodie find: Number 13 Prime Steak and Seafood (7809 Broadway, 409-572-2650). Operated by upscale catering RK Group, the restaurant is located at Pelican Rest Marina and offers splendid views of Offatts Bayou. The menu is filled with luxe options such Axis Venison Loin with confit potato and truffle jus ($42), lamb T-bones with grilled sweet breads ($38) and crawfish-stuffed beignets ($12).