My grandfather told me never to drink tequila for two reasons: 1) It would drive me crazy, and 2) It has a worm in it. Now that I'm legal, crazy doesn't sound all that bad. El Vez's monthly tequila tasting includes a brief educational presentation (so you can rest assured there are no worms in your glass) followed by a sampling of tequilas with Don Julio. Light appetizers are included in the price. Get Your Agave On! , El Vez, 121 S. 13th St., 215-928-9800.

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A plethora of restaurants around town are hosting Mardi Gras shindigs this big Fat Tuesday, starting with Carmine's Creole Cafe, owned and operated by NOLA native chef John Mims. The evening's menu is heavy on seafood including such classics as oyster po'boys and redfish coo-be-yoon (courtbouillion—a spicy red sauce, to all you Northerners). Mardi Gras at Carmine's , Carmine's Creole Café, 232 Woodbine Ave., Narberth, 610-660-0160.

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Le Alliance Française de Philadelphie is reaching out to its Creole cousins by having a Mardi Gras party at Patou Restaurant. Chef Patrice Rames is planning country pate, rotisserie carvings and an assortment of French cheeses. Additional entertainment includes music and dancing, tarot-card reading and a contest to win a week's stay in Paris. Costumes are encouraged, but anyone dressed like an "idiot" will be given "le boot." Mardi Gras with Alliance Francaise , Patou Restaurant and Bar, 312 Market St., 215-735-5283.

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The history of Philadelphia's food is very mysterious. Like scrapple—what's up with that? City Paper columnist Carolyn Wyman is on hand to answer all your food-related questions about soft pretzels, hoagies, cheesesteaks, sticky buns and other regional specialities while leading listeners on a jaunt around the Reading Terminal Market. The new ongoing tour promises to reveal the inner secrets of Philly foods—all of which may be purchased in the market. Taste of Philly Food History Tour, departs from the information booth, Reading Terminal Market, 12th and Filbert sts., 215-545-8007.