The 2013 Absolut Hillcrest Mardi Gras will be held Feb. 12 in its traditional location; between First and Fourth on University Avenue. The event will be produced by renowned party promoter and producer Bill Hardt.
“We approached Bill Hardt to produce the event because of his vast experience,” said Stampp Corbin, president of the GSDBA Charitable Foundation. The GSDBA Charitable Foundation receives the proceeds from the event.
“We expect the event to be bigger and better than ever,” said Big Mike Phillips, a GSDBA Charitable Foundation board member. “We really had to pull this off in a very short period of time this year, but we’ve gotten it done.”
The Viejas Stage will feature Tootie and the Lips Girls, as well as famous DJ Phil B, who has played many times at the internationally famous San Diego Pride Zoo Party.
“We also want to thank our sponsors for their continued commitment to the event,” Corbin said. “Absolut, Viejas Casino, Jagermeister, California Bank & Trust, The Pride Card, Rage Magazine and LGBT Weekly really stepped forward. Other sponsors are still being firmed up.”
The GSDBA Charitable Foundation has provided more than $125,000 in scholarships to LGBT students during the last ten years from the proceeds generated from Mardi Gras. The most notable scholarship recipient is Todd Gloria, City Council president. “We are a totally volunteer organization and that’s why we can award so many scholarships,” enthused Tom Abbas, the treasurer of the organization.
Tickets for Absolut Hillcrest Mardi Gras are on sale at billhardtpresents.com or can be purchased at the event. VIP tickets purchased in advance are $50 and $75 the day of the event. General admission tickets are $15 in advance and $20 the day of the event.
