Mardi Gras in New Orleans

The king of New Orleans celebrations shows off the city's spirit

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a one to a three-month stretch of the year in which the streets come alive with music, art, and costumed revelers. Beginning on Twelfth Night, January 6, the best season of the year is upon us: king cake, bead-tossing, and parading begins and only increases as we make our way toward Mardi Gras Day. The next Mardi Gras day is on March 4, 2025.

There’s so much to celebrate during Carnival season, where locals rule and visitors are more than welcome to join in on the fun. On the weekends leading up to Fat Tuesday, parades roll all over town. Spectators gasp at the colossal Endymion floats and delight in the political satire of Krewe du Vieux. There’s something to do during every week of the Mardi Gras season.

Whether it's new traditions like Krewe of Chewbacchus (with its Star Wars-inspired tomfoolery) or decades-old stalwarts Zulu and Rex (which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year), visitors are encouraged to explore our Mardi Gras traditions. Some of our favorite ways to do this? Try ten different slices of king cake, stand in awe of community walking krewes, and make new friendships with your neighbors on the route. This is the place to have the authentic Mardi Gras experience.

Mardi Gras Basics & Essential Information

Mardi Gras FAQs

Is there anything richer than praline pecan cheesecake? Yes. The history and traditions of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Let’s take a look behind the mask.

Mardi Gras Krewes

Mardi Gras krewes throw the parades and each has its own history and traditions. Let us throw you a little trivia, mister.  

How to Celebrate Mardi Gras like a Local

Must-do Mardi Gras experiences from the people who know best–the locals!

Mardi Gras for Everyone

Whether you're traveling with kids, looking for LGBTQ celebrations, or interested in experiencing the earlier side of Mardi Gras, there's a Mardi Gras experience for everyone in New Orleans.

All Things King Cake

'Tis the season's most sought-after sweet. From where to find them to how to make one, it's everything you wanted to know about the King Cake.

Mardi Gras History & Traditions

Mardi Gras History and Traditions

Mardi Gras is so much more fun when you understand what it is you’re celebrating and what each tradition means to the generations of parade-goers who have…