While Mardi Gras may fall on February 17 this year, it’s the weeks leading up to the big day that make the season special. Chow down on king cake, attend early season parades, or check out one of the pop-up markets below. These markets have all of your Carnival needs in one place: think costumes, glitter, accessories, and even king cake! Step out in style and make the most of your Mardi Gras by getting into the Carnival spirit. 

The Shop at the Historic New Orleans Collection 

This fun-filled King Cake Kickoff on Friday, Jan. 9 is free and open to the public. Don your finest purple, green, and gold and launch the Carnival season with live New Orleans jazz, the Merry Antoinettes, and free samples of king cakes from bakers across the city. The event is from 1:30-3:30 p.m. 

She Comes in Peace Mardi Gras Kickoff Market 

Head to this sci-fi themed Bywater salon for a Mardi Gras Kickoff Market on January 10 from 12-6 p.m. Shop costumes, accessories, and more, including a scavenger hunt sale. 

Little Flea NOLA Mardi Gras Market 

Head to Hotel Saint Vincent on Sunday, Jan. 11 from 12-5 p.m. for free admission to Little Flea’s Mardi Gras Market. This market features some of the city’s best vintage, antiques, local artists & makers, plus costumes and headpieces alongside delicious sweet treats and festive cocktails. 

Ogden Museum of Southern Art 

Ogden Museum’s Mardi Gras Market (free to attend) falls on Saturday, Jan. 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with artisan crafts, fashion, and costumes. But you can spend all season long at the O with one of their craft workshops. Enjoy Craft Happy Hour, where participants can learn how to make their own Mardi Gras House Flowers, on January 21, 28, and February 4.  Also, learn about Mardi Gras Indian traditions with Black Masking Indian Marwan Pleasant in a hand beading artist workshop on January 17 and 31. 

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King Cake Fe(a)st- By the Slice 

Wanna try all the king cakes before committing to a whole one? King Cake Feast is the fest for you! Held on Thursdays between January 8 and February 5, there will be king cake slices, macaroons, and donuts available for purchase, as well as king cake accessories! Admission is free and the fest is held at Port Orleans Brewing from 5-9 p.m. 

The Chloe 

Step into Carnival creativity at The Chloe’s Mardi Gras Market, February 6-15, featuring 15+ of New Orleans’ most talented local vendors. Whether you’re finishing your costume or adding last-minute sparkle before hitting the route, shop wearable art, headpieces, feathered accessories, and tricked-out essentials just steps from St. Charles Avenue. There’s no ticket required. Additionally, attend a Carnival Headdress Workshop. On January 20 or February 6, or a Plume Party! (personalized feather flair) on February 14.