On your radar: Kelly Clarkson is in concert tonight at Ruth Eckerd or we can help you find a Mardi Gras party

By Michelle Stark, Times Staff WriterMichelle StarkTampa Bay Times In Print: Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Kelly Clarkson: The first Idol has two Grammys and some huge hits under her belt. She'll perform with Matt Nathanson at 7:30 p.m. at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. $65.50$95.

Poetry Art and Music: The studio turns its walls into an open canvas for visual artists and sets up an open mike for musicians and poets at 7:30 p.m. at Studio@620 in St. Petersburg. $5.

National Geographic Live Frans Lanting: The wildlife photographer demonstrates the web of life, from microscopic worlds to nature's great creatures, at 7 p.m. at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa. Tickets start at $19.50.

Mardi Gras parties

In Ybor: Bernini's and Green Iguana Ybor host a huge party that includes free Creole buffet, king cakes, music and a cash bar. Starts at 6:30 p.m. at Bernini Restaurant, 1702 E Seventh Ave., Tampa. Free.

In Dunedin: This street party features a parade, local celebrities, beads, drinks and food for sale, and music by New Orleans headliner Cyril Neville and surf rockers the Vodkanauts. Music starts at 5 p.m.; parade is at 7:30 on Main Street in Dunedin. Free.

To watch

Glee, 8 p.m., Fox: The guest stars are Jeff Goldblum and NeNe Leakes? No wonder critics think Smash is better.

More to explore

Find restaurant reviews at tampabay.com/things-to-do.