Mardi Gras Tips from NOLA Locals: What to Know Before You Go

Essential Mardi Gras Advice from NOLA Insiders

New Orleans comes alive during Mardi Gras in ways that are impossible to capture until you’ve seen it with your own eyes. The vibrant parades, dazzling costumes, and infectious energy create an experience that's truly one-of-a-kind—but, let’s be honest, it can also overwhelm first-timers.

And while we consider ourselves experts in the subject (we are, after all, a team of New Orleans natives and long-time locals), when it comes to a cultural phenomenon this big, the more insider knowledge you have, the better. We've gathered wisdom from local influencers, renowned chefs, captivating burlesque performers, and other NOLA natives who've experienced countless Carnival seasons. From practical advice about comfortable footwear to insider secrets (including one award-winning chef's sage advice about what you should never drink before 9 a.m. on Mardi Gras Day), these locals share their hard-earned tips to help you celebrate like a true New Orleanian.

JUMP TO:

Throws & Parade Etiquette | Must-Do Experiences | Bathroom Access | Parade Logistics | What to Wear | Eating & Drinking

Mardi Gras Throws and Parade Etiquette:

Don’t Just stand there! Beads aren’t just handed out to the quiet ones. If you want the good stuff, channel your inner performer and make some noise! But don’t fight for beads you can buy at Walmart. Unless they’re rare or super fancy, let ‘em go. 

-    Tamsy Kambi

Local Influencer, @TamLovesToEat on Instagram

You will find mostly friendly locals! Be kind and courteous and enjoy their hospitality. You might find this provides you with a clean restroom, a bowl of jambalaya, and a slice of king cake.

-     Nancy Weinstock McDaniel

VP of Latter Hospitality (Tujague's, Birdy's + The Bower)

A fanny pack is key for keeping your essentials handy, especially when you’ve got a neck full of beads. Speaking of beads, don’t pick up the ones on the ground (trust me). Instead, recycle your Mardi Gras throws with ARC NOLA—you don’t need all that clutter at home. If you’ve got kids, write your phone number in Sharpie on their arm or leg. If they get lost, someone can call you.

- Simone Reggie

Director of Sales & Marketing, French Truck Coffee

Looking to make new friends? The way to a New Orleanian's heart is through their stomach! Bring some snacks and some good hydration to share along the parade route, and there you have it -- new friends! Catching a neighbor sharing great snacks could be even more valuable than catching those oversized beads! (Ok, that's at least Frankie's perspective!).

- Frankie and Chef Aom

Pomelo and Good Catch

Must-Do Mardi Gras Experiences:

If you’re heading to the Quarter, I highly recommend checking out the Greasing of the Poles on Friday, February 28—it’s a fun and only-in-New Orleans kickoff to the weekend. Then, bop around the Quarter and soak in the energy. A few must-visit spots:

• Fives Bar – Get the Saturn in Retrograde cocktail.
• Golden Lantern – Classic dive with a killer Bloody Mary.
• Erin Rose – Legendary frozen Irish coffee and a great local bar vibe.

-    Scot Pilié

Meteorologist (WGNO New Orleans) and Local Influencer, @scotpilie_wx on Instagram

There is a Mardi Gras for everyone! To know Mardi Gras is to experience Mardi Gras! My absolute favorite are the walking parades and the magic that is to be found in impromptu moments. 

-     Vivacious Miss Audacious

Burlesque Performer and Event Producer, @MissAudacious on Instagram

Get out of the quarter! Mardi Gras is more than Bourbon Street and big parades, there are plenty of great restaurants that would love the support outside of the Quarter.

-     Steve Groom

General Manager, Costera

Always support locals when you are eating, staying, or playing! There are tons of local businesses that need your love especially when miles of streets are closed. Make sure to show some love to them as they are working to help you have a good time! 

-  Karen Phan

Local Influencer, @AintThatPhancy on Instagram

Laissez les bon temps rouler! New Orleans is always great to visit but Mardi Gras season is special! Make sure to catch the Endymion and Bacchus parades, and the Zulu parade on Mardi Gras day. If you want to hear some great music stop by Snug Harbor, the Jazz Market and Preservation Hall!

- Adonis Rose

Executive Director of the NOCCA Foundation

Have fun and roll with it! Plans will change. Someone will get lost. You'll meet new friends. You might end up at a stranger's house eating gumbo. That's all part of the Mardi Gras magic. Just roll with it! We suspect this is where the "rouler" comes in when we say "Laissez les bon temps rouler!”

- Frankie and Chef Aom

 Pomelo and Good Catch

Mardi Gras is all about the flare. You'll want it on your luncheon table, parade route and home. If you don't have time to decorate, call Sparkle & Swag and they will do it for you! 

- Taylor Morgan

Editor & Owner, The Scout Guide New Orleans

Always Know Where to *GO* (Bathroom Access is Key):

Bathrooms Are Gold.  Plan your pit stops wisely—because once you’re deep in the parade route, you’re on your own.

-    Tamsy Kambi

Local Influencer, @TamLovesToEat on Instagram

Bathrooms are worth it – Don’t hesitate to spend a few bucks for a nearby port-o-potty or a bathroom pass—it’s a game-changer.

-     Scot Pilié

Meteorologist (WGNO New Orleans) and Local Influencer, @scotpilie_wx on Instagram

Have a bathroom plan! Pay for a bathroom pass at a nearby bar, hotel or restaurant OR make friends with someone who lives on the route. 

-    Nicole Caridad Ralston, PHD  

Local Influencer, @EatenPathNOLA on Instagram

We always map out where we watch the parades with bathroom access! I cannot stress that enough! Bathroom access!

-     Chef Isaac & Amanda Toup

Toups Family Meal

BYO toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Know where you can access bathrooms, whether at a hotel or a friend's house.

-   Steve Groom

General Manager, Costera

Parade Logistics:

Plan an Escape Route. Because once the crowds take over, you’re either stuck for hours or making friends with a local’s porch.

-    Tamsy Kambi

Local Influencer, @TamLovesToEat on Instagram

My advice would be to find a good base of operations for parade viewing. Look for restaurants/hotels that have viewing stand packages or places that you can pay to have access to throughout the day. And/or plan on being mobile and walking around but have destinations (with bathrooms) such as bars and restaurants to visit along the way. People-watching is great during Mardi Gras. Be aware of the parade routes and have a plan to get where you need to go. Beware of the Box*!

-     Chef Donald Link

Herbsaint, Cochon, Cochon Butcher, Pêche, La Boulangerie, and Gianna

*The Box refers to the area "boxed in" by parade route road closures. Most typically from Napoleon Avenue to Canal Street and Saint Charles Ave. to the Mississippi River, there's some variation depending on a parade's specific route, so just check ahead and be prepared!

For parents of toddlers/babies: pack lots of snacks, milk, formula, water, etc. Bring a baby wrap, baby carrier or wagon/stroller out to the route for the kiddos to rest in. Pack your diaper bag with extra diapers, wipes and clothes in case of blowouts.

-    Nicole Caridad Ralston, PHD  

Local Influencer, @EatenPathNOLA on Instagram

Go with the flow – Whatever plans you make, expect them to get completely thrown off. Roll with it and enjoy the chaos.

-    Scot Pilie

Meteorologist (WGNO New Orleans) and Local Influencer, @scotpilie_wx on Instagram

We plan our parade spot based on a few factors. It needs to be close enough to a bar with a clean bathroom (a couple of spots on the route will offer a parade bathroom pass for a certain cost, take advantage of this!). Bring a tote with you to collect throws, and make your life easy. Lastly, bring food and drinks with you. These parades are LONG. I usually grab fried chicken from McHardy's, a bag of Zapp's, and a pack of Abita Amber for my parade cooler!

-   Caitlin Orellana

Local Influencer, @CaitlinOrellanaHome on Instagram

My best tip is to location-share with your posse so you can roam freely and find each other as you wish. No need for texting or calls (service will be spotty anyway). Just glance at the map and hunt for your friends like treasure! 

-    Vivacious Miss Audacious

Burlesque Performer and Event Producer, @MissAudacious on Instagram

Someone in the family needs to have a backpack with water and baby wipes. You’re going to get sticky. You’ll thank me later for the baby wipes. Bring your own booze. We use a cooler backpack that fits some beer and a bottle of wine. If you’re with your kids watch the parades uptown near the beginning of the route. Way more family-friendly. If it’s just adults you can hit it closer to the end where there’s more debauchery. Just Uber, you’re going to drink and you’re never going to find parking. So, take that Uber! Have fun and laugh a whole lot!

-     Chef Isaac & Amanda Toups

Toups Family Meal

Have a designated meeting place in case you lose your friends. You may even lose your cell signal. Take lots of pictures, but keep your wits about you. Leave early or late and know your parade routes and start times. Pay attention to parking rules. Your plans may have to change on the fly.

-    Steve Groom

General Manager, Costera

In your bag - Socks. Duct tape. Toilet paper. Trust us.

-    Kat Dilonno

 Co-Owner,  Beggars Banquet

My Mardi Gras essentials: a bike (to help you get around inside and outside the box), a backpack cooler bag filled with a pre-mixed cocktail and a top that screws back on (like Saba’s Dionysius Revival), a ziploc of clean ice for making your to-go cocktails, a few go-cups, and a fanny pack (need to be hands-free to catch throws!).

- Emily Shaya 

Founder and Director of New Projects, Pomegranate Hospitality

Take care of your basic necessities! Everything else is lagniappe. It's easy to get caught up in the fun of it all and forget to eat, drink water and pee! It's a marathon, not a sprint, and if you forget to cover the basics, you'll burn out fast.

- Kelly Jacques 

Co-Owner and Chef, Ayu Bakehouse

Like so many others, I love to hear the bands blow under the bridge at Calliope and St. Charles.

- Sophie Burton

Bar Manager and Assistant General Manager, Junebug (Opening Soon!)

Locals know that timing is everything during Mardi Gras parades. Download the Parade Tracker apps from either WDSU (Channel 6) or WWL (Channel 4) to see real-time locations for each krewe as they parade down the streets (we use both!). This will help you to know how much time you should plan to spend on whichever side of the route you choose to set up -- and allows you to plan a meal break at the perfect time -- either before, after, or during the parades! No matter where you choose to view the parade, there are likely a dozen restaurants within a short walk from you, many just a few blocks away from the route, at which seating is usually quite available while the parades are rolling.

- Frankie and Chef Aom

 Pomelo and Good Catch

How to Dress the Part (Comfort AND Costuming): 

Wear Shoes You’re Willing to Sacrifice Your cute shoes won’t survive the beer puddles, mystery liquids, and broken beads. Consider them a Mardi Gras offering.

Costumes Are Encouraged (and Sometimes Required) 🎭✨ If you’re not in a wig, sequins, or at least a feather boa, are you even doing Mardi Gras right? And on Mardi Gras day wear a heavy coat, shorts, tank top and sneakers because the weather changes from winter wonderland to summer by noon.

-    Tamsy Kambi

Local Influencer, @TamLovesToEat on Instagram

Remember that comfortable shoes are a must.

-     Caitlin Minshew

Local Influencer, @EatingWithCaitt on Instagram

While some folks extensively plan their costumes I prefer to rise and assemble, assessing the weather and my vibes for the day and throwing a look together. I find it stress-free and the ideal way to adapt to the weather. 

-    Vivacious Miss Audacious

Burlesque Performer and Event Producer, @MissAudacious on Instagram

First and foremost, comfortable walking shoes! You can find comfortable walking shoes that are sparkly and fun. If not, decorate your own pair of chucks.

-     Chef Isaac & Amanda Toups

Toups Family Meal

Comfort is key! You'll be doing a ton of walking whether you are in the quarter, downtown, or on St. Charles Ave. It's best to wear comfortable shoes that you don't mind getting dirty. My go-to is my white sneakers with purple, green, and gold embellishments. Pack light and come with a smile! A crossbody or bag belt with the necessities is key. You'll want your phone and wallet close to you for safety and you don't need much else.

-    Nancy Weinstock McDaniel

VP of Latter Hospitality (Tujague's, Birdy's + The Bower)

Wear comfortable shoes and protect your valuables, but don't wear anything you wouldn't mind losing.

-  Steve Groom

General Manager, Costera

Eating and Drinking During Mardi Gras:

Drinks & snacks on the parade route – Grab a frozen cocktail from Superior Seafood on the Uptown route or a frozen Irish coffee from Avenue Pub, you won't regret it. If you need last-minute essentials, Martin’s Wine Cellar (Uptown location) is a great spot for booze and snacks.

- Scot Pilié

Meteorologist (WGNO New Orleans) and Local Influencer, @scotpilie_wx on Instagram

You absolutely must grab a to-go margarita from Superior Seafood.

-    Caitlin Minshew

Local Influencer, @EatingWithCaitt on Instagram

My favorite spots for a drink: Lafitte's purple drink in the quarter is always a must! If you are uptown, you have to get a margarita from Superior Grill.

-    Nancy Weinstock McDaniel

VP of Latter Hospitality (Tujague's, Birdy's + The Bower)

Look up where to get Happy Hour! Grab a bite before you go parading or on your way back. One of my favorite places to watch the parade is from The Delachaise on St. Charles. For a small cover fee, you can drink good wine while watching the parade and catch throws. We also highly recommend The Columns and The Chloe as great places to stop in on St. Charles if you're uptown - it never hurts to find a pool if it's warm enough.

-  Steve Groom

General Manager, Costera

Finding your meeting place bar is essential to the Mardi Gras Experience. There's no better
feeling than finding familiar faces in the crowd. Do it like a local and hang out at our favorites, no matter what part of the city you're enjoying parades from! My picks by neighborhood are:

• Uptown: The Columns, Avenue Pub, Milan Lounge, 
• Bywater: Anna’s, Big Daddies, No Dice, Bud Rips
• French Quarter: Chart Room, Henry's Bar, Fives Bar, Molly’s
• Mid City: Mid City Yacht Club, Holy Ground

Take care of your bartenders… you’ll make their very long day (and you’ll probably be at the front of their line). And remember that Jell-O shots are easily transportable - stuff them in your backpack. It's like meal prepping.

- Kat Dilonno

Co-Owner, Beggars Banquet

Mardi Gras is all about energy—pacing yourself, eating well, and knowing where to stop between the parades. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a balanced cocktail, or a spot to recharge, here’s how to do it like a local.

• A good breakfast sets the tone, and Molly’s Rise and Shine is the move. 
• New Orleans runs on gumbo, and Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe in Treme does one of the best. 
• For a classic po’boy, there’s no debate—Parkway Bakery & Tavern is the spot.
• After a long day, you want a cocktail that’s well-made, not just strong. Compère Lapin is where to go. 
• If you’re looking for a quick escape from the Mardi Gras chaos, stop by Pêche and go see Chef Nikki. 
• Everyone wants king cake during Mardi Gras, but not all are worth the hype. Dong Phuong makes the best, hands down.

- Ashwin Vilkhu

 Co-Executive Chef, Saffron and Executive Chef, The Kingsway (opening soon!)

My favorite spots along the route for a pitstop or a breather: The Columns, The Chloe, and Saba during Thoth. If you’re downtown and need a delicious beverage or bite, Miss River and Chandelier Bar are a respite from the madness.

- Emily Shaya 

Founder and Director of New Projects, Pomegranate Hospitality

I bring along hand sanitizer, a four-pack of crisp local tall boys (like Little Oblivion from Brewery Saint X!), and I make a little cocktail for a flask. My preferred flask cocktails are rum old fashioneds (made with aged rum, demerara sugar, angostura & orange bitters, and a little chilled water) or M&Ms (mezcal and Montenegro). Having a fun little drink in a limited quantity keeps the pace mellow and enjoyable.

- Sophie Burton

Bar Manager and Assistant General Manager, Junebug (Opening Soon!)

Plan on staying out for a full day of parades on Mardi Gras Day? Consider packing a quick meal and snacks to go. My Zulu eats include hot dogs, red beans, Zapp's and fried chicken. Probably a big shot, too. Bringing cups filled with ice on the route is a big yes! Especially one that keeps your drink cold and ice un-melted. Waiting in line somewhere might make you miss the parade! Superior Seafood is my uptown Mardi Gras staple. To-go drinks while on the route and a hearty meal after the parades.

- Chasity Pugh

Local Influencer, @LetDatGirlEat on Instagram

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate:

Hydrate… and not just with hurricanes. Drink water between Hand Grenades unless you want to meet Bourbon Street’s pavement up close.

- Tamsy Kambi

Local Influencer, @TamLovesToEat on Instagram

If you're from out of town, your first stop needs to be to buy a case of water for your room/ airbnb. Trust me, you're gonna need it.

-    Kortlynn Jenae’ Johnson

 Local Influencer, @KortlynnJenae on Instagram

Stay hydrated! Booze is plentiful, but it's a marathon, not a sprint. Bring a water bottle and packs of Liquid IV or Pedialyte.

-    Steve Groom

General Manager, Costera

Hydrate: One drink, one water—it’s a game-changer. And pace yourself. A long lunch can be your best friend.

- Ashwin Vilkhu

 Co-Executive Chef, Saffron and Executive Chef, The Kingsway (opening soon!)