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.
Future Mardi Gras Dates - New Orleans
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Mardi Gras Like a Local
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Mardi Gras Bucket List
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Mardi Gras Fundamentals
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The Ultimate Guide to Mardi Gras
From historic facts and carnival basics to what to expect at parades, here is your go-to guide…
Signature Throws
For more than 130 years, Mardi Gras “throws” have been part of the fun of Carnival.
Mardi Gras FAQs
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Mardi Gras For Families
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LGBTQ Mardi Gras
Thinking of heading to New Orleans during Mardi Gras season? Check out these gay krewes like Krewe…
How to Get Around During Mardi Gras
Like every balcony in the French Quarter, the streets of New Orleans are overcrowded during Carnival…
Mardi Gras Krewes
Mardi Gras krewes throw the parades and each has its own history and traditions. Let us throw you a…
Mardi Gras A to Z
Mardi Gras is many things, so many that it takes every letter of the alphabet to explain.
Mardi Gras Parade Schedule
Plan for Mardi Gras with our list of parades in New Orleans.
Mardi Gras Hotel Packages
If you’re planning on coming to town, check out these deals and packages, which include viewing stands and private parade viewing access. Experience the Mardi Gras magic and start…
Early Mardi Gras Guide
The early bird gets the worm when it comes to experiencing a New Orleans Mardi Gras. Find out how you can make the most of the season by visiting this January or early February.
Ultimate Guide to King Cake
From traditional cinnamon to sweet and savory banana-peanut butter-bacon, king cake season is here, with more delicious options than ever before.
Mardi Gras All Year Long
Mardi Gras Museums
The magic and spectacle that is Mardi Gras happens every Carnival season starting Twelfth Night…
Mardi Gras Tours
If you missed the city’s annual Carnival festivities, take a Segway, bike, walking or bus tour…
Costume/Mask Shops
In a city where costume shops are as common as supermarkets, there is always a reason to find more…
Mardi Gras Beads and Supplies
Take home some Carnival spirit from some of the many places that sell beads, costumes and other…
Mardi Gras World
Come see where Mardi Gras is made. See Mardi Gras magic created right before your eyes in this maze of amazing carnival creations. Guided tours, video and gift shop…
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…