Mardi Gras is a vibrant and colourful annual carnival held in either February or March in New Orleans. The Mardi Gras festival begins on January 6th every year which is also known as Twelfth Night. This day represents the Christian holy day of the Epiphany. The festival kicks off with parades, music, and people flocking the streets for fun and celebration. Music fills the air as the jazz musicians and brass bands entertain onlookers. Making the celebration grander, there happen to be several dancers, street performers, and masquerade dancers adding to the festivity in the atmosphere.
Also known as “Fat Tuesday”, Mardi Gras is one of the most celebrated carnivals across the globe and people from across the globe assemble in New Orleans to celebrate and be a part of this festival. Moreover, Mardi Gras 2025 will be celebrated on March 4th. So if you wish to be a part of this grand celebration, plan your trip accordingly. Also, here is a complete guide that is going to help you with all the important details about Mardi Gras traditions and celebrations.
History: Mardi Gras in New Orleans
The roots of Mardi Gras in New Orleans date back to the French Colonial times which is during the 18th century. Over the years, the celebration evolved from European pre-Lenten traditions, blending with the local customs and culture. According to the history of this celebration, the first Mardi Gras was celebrated in 1699, when Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville and Sieur de Bienville; two French explorers landed in the city of New Orleans. This marked the beginning of this iconic annual festival in New Orleans.
Despite occasional interruptions, including the World War restrictions, this celebration persisted. It has kept on getting traction and is renowned globally for its spectacular parades, music, and revelry. In today’s time, the celebration of Mardi Gras has become a symbol of New Orleans’ rich heritage, vibrant culture, and enduring spirit of celebration.
Traditions: Mardi Gras in New Orleans
Parades:
Parades in this festival are one of the highlights and that makes it big because people dress up in colourful costumes, wear masks, and dance to music. Big floats decorated with fancy designs roll through the streets, and you will find people on the floats throwing beads or even toys, and other trinkets to the crowd. It’s a time for families and friends to come together, have fun, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Another thing that you must know is that this festival is also famous around the world for its lively parades and energetic spirit!
Costumes:
The next most important thing about the festival is the costumes that people wear throughout. You will spot people wearing all sorts of outfits, from fancy dresses to crazy costumes. You’ll see lots of bright colours, sparkles, feathers, and masks. Some dress up as kings, queens, jesters, or even animals to induce fun in their celebration. The tradition of wearing costumes at Mardi Gras goes way back, and it’s all about having fun and being creative. So, don’t be surprised if you see someone in a wild and wacky outfit; it’s all part of the celebration!
King Cake:
The King Cake is a special treat that is savoured during this grand festival. It is more or less like a big cinnamon roll, often decorated with purple, green, and gold icing. The decoration represents justice, faith, and power. Inside, there’s usually a tiny plastic baby hidden. If you find the baby in your slice, tradition says you’ll have good luck and be the king or queen of the party. People love sharing King Cake with friends and family during the celebrations, making it a yummy and fun tradition in New Orleans.
Beads:
The Beads of Mardi Gras are colourful necklaces thrown from parade floats during the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans. These beads come in all sorts of bright colours and sizes, and people love to catch them during the parades. They’re a big part of the fun and excitement of Mardi Gras! People wear them around their necks as souvenirs of the celebration. Each year, thousands of beads are thrown, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere in the streets of New Orleans.
About Krewe Culture:
Krewe is an organisation or a club that exists to celebrate the Mardi Gras carnival.
Mardi Gras Day:
Mardi Gras Day, also known as Fat Tuesday, marks the climax of the Mardi Gras season in New Orleans. It falls on the day before Ash Wednesday, signalling the start of Lent in the Christian calendar. On this day, the city erupts into a frenzy of parades, music, and elaborate costumes. People stand in line on the streets to catch colourful beads, doubloons, and other trinkets thrown from floats. Traditional foods like king cake, gumbo, and jambalaya are enjoyed, and socialising reaches a fever pitch. It’s a time when New Orleans truly comes alive, embodying the spirit of joy, excess, and celebration that defines Mardi Gras.
Dates: Mardi Gras in New Orleans?
It is an iconic celebration held annually, usually falling between February and March. Rooted in French Catholic tradition, it’s a time of revelry and festivity leading up to the solemn season of Lent. The festivities feature colourful parades, elaborate costumes, lively music, and delicious cuisine. Thousands of locals and tourists flock to the city to partake in the festivities, which culminate in a grand finale on Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a cultural spectacle cherished worldwide for its vibrant energy and rich traditions. In this section, you will get to know the dates of this festival in the upcoming years.
| YEAR | MARDI GRAS DAY |
| 2025 | March 4 |
| 2026 | February 17 |
| 2027 | February 9 |
| 2028 | February 29 |
| 2029 | February 13 |
| 2030 | March 5 |
| 2031 | February 25 |
| 2032 | February 10 |
| 2033 | March 1 |
| 2034 | February 21 |
| 2035 | February 6 |
| 2036 | February 26 |
| 2037 | February 17 |
| 2038 | March 9 |
| 2039 | February 22 |
| 2040 | February 14 |
| 2041 | March 5 |
| 2042 | February 18 |
| 2043 | February 10 |
| 2044 | March 1 |
| 2045 | February 21 |
| 2046 | February 6 |
| 2047 | February 26 |
| 2048 | February 18 |
| 2049 | March 2 |
| 2050 | February 22 |
Things to do in Mardi Gras in New Orleans
There’s a plethora of activities to enjoy the festive spirit. Catching colourful beads and trinkets tossed from vibrant parade floats is a must, along with witnessing the elaborate costumes and intricate floats firsthand. Indulge in the city’s rich culinary traditions by sampling delicious Creole and Cajun dishes like gumbo and king cake. Explore the lively streets pulsating with music, from jazz to brass bands, and join in the spirited dancing. Engage in the jovial atmosphere by attending masquerade balls, street parties, and cultural events. Mardi Gras in New Orleans offers a vibrant tapestry of experiences for everyone to enjoy.
Attend a parade
Attending a parade during Mardi Gras in New Orleans is an exhilarating experience that immerses you in a whirlwind of colour, music, and excitement. As the parade approaches, anticipation builds among the crowd lining the streets, eagerly awaiting the spectacle. Elaborate floats adorned with dazzling decorations glide by, each one a masterpiece of creativity and craftsmanship. Vibrant costumes and masks captivate the eye, while the air fills with the infectious rhythms of marching bands and lively tunes. Cheers erupt as parade participants toss colourful beads and trinkets to eager spectators, creating an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie that defines the magic of Mardi Gras.
Catch some beads
Catching beads during Mardi Gras in New Orleans is an experience that embodies the essence of this celebration. As parade floats roll by, spectators eagerly extend their arms, hoping to snag the colourful strands of beads tossed from above. The air fills with excitement as the beads arc through the sky, and the crowd erupts in cheers as lucky catchers secure their treasures. Each bead becomes a cherished souvenir, symbolising the joy and vibrancy of the occasion. Whether young or old, locals or visitors, the thrill of catching beads adds unforgettable memories to the festivities.
Visit a plantation
Visiting a plantation in New Orleans offers a glimpse into the region’s complex history. Set amidst lush landscapes, these estates provide a window into the antebellum South, showcasing grand mansions, sprawling gardens, and preserved slave quarters. Guided tours offer insights into the lives of both the wealthy plantation owners and the enslaved people who toiled the land. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored interiors, adorned with period furnishings and artefacts, and stroll through the picturesque grounds. It’s a sombre yet educational experience, highlighting the harsh realities of slavery while celebrating the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.
Take a swamp tour
Embark on an unforgettable adventure by taking a swamp tour in the lush wetlands surrounding New Orleans. Glide through the tranquil waters aboard a flat-bottomed boat as your knowledgeable guide navigates the maze of cypress trees and Spanish moss. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, and exotic bird species inhabiting the marshy ecosystem. Learn about the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this biodiverse environment, and gain insight into the region’s rich cultural history and folklore. Feel the serenity of nature enveloping you as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Louisiana swamps on this captivating tour.
Sample the cuisine
New Orleans cuisine is a melting pot of flavours that tantalise the taste buds during Mardi Gras and year-round. Indulge in iconic dishes like gumbo, a hearty stew filled with a medley of meats, seafood, and vegetables, simmered in a flavourful roux. Sink your teeth into crispy fried beignets, dusted with powdered sugar, for a sweet treat. Savour the spicy kick of jambalaya, a rice dish brimming with sausage, chicken, and Creole spices. And don’t forget to try the famous king cake, a festive pastry adorned with colourful icing and hiding a hidden trinket, bringing luck to whoever finds it.
Where to Stay?
During Mardi Gras in New Orleans, accommodations fill up quickly, so it’s wise to book in advance. Options range from luxurious hotels in the French Quarter to cosy bed and breakfasts in historic neighbourhoods. Let’s have a look at the options that you can pick.
- Hotel Monteleone
- Hilton New Orleans Riverside
- The Roosevelt New Orleans
- Omni Royal Orleans
- Bourbon Orleans Hotel
- Royal Sonesta New Orleans
- The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
- The Pontchartrain Hotel
- Maison Dupuy Hotel
- Ace Hotel New Orleans
- Hyatt Regency New Orleans
What to Wear?
When visiting Mardi Gras in New Orleans, it’s essential to dress comfortably and for the weather, as festivities often span outdoor activities. Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for potentially warm temperatures. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking and standing during parades and street celebrations. Many people embrace the festive spirit by wearing colourful costumes, masks, and beads, but casual attire is also perfectly acceptable. Additionally, consider bringing a small bag or backpack to carry essentials like water, sunscreen, and snacks.
Safety Tips
Safety is paramount during Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Stay aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded areas.
- Travel in groups whenever possible, especially at night.
- Keep valuables secure and out of sight to deter theft.
- Stay hydrated and pace yourself, especially if consuming alcohol.
- Follow all traffic laws and use designated crosswalks when crossing streets.
- Respect the personal space and boundaries of others.
- Be cautious of accepting food or drinks from strangers.
- Familiarise yourself with emergency contact information and nearby medical facilities.
- Stay informed of weather forecasts and dress appropriately.
- Trust your instincts and avoid situations or individuals that feel unsafe.
Bottom Line – Conclusion
Mardi Gras in New Orleans is an unparalleled celebration of culture, tradition, and revelry. From the vibrant parades to the tantalising cuisine and infectious music, it offers an immersive experience like no other. Amidst the colourful costumes and spirited crowds, a sense of unity and joy permeates the air, creating unforgettable memories for locals and visitors alike. While indulging in the festivities, it’s crucial to prioritise safety and respect for others. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a testament to the city’s resilience, creativity, and enduring spirit of celebration.
