You’ve probably seen unfortunate headlines about Mardi Gras accidents before. While accidents can happen, many are avoidable. Engaging in simple parade safety, like staying behind the barricades, not throwing items at float riders, and avoiding crossing the street when the parade is passing, can make all the difference. 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 About 60 miles from what is now New Orleans, they set up camp on March 3, the day before Lent. In honor of the meaningful date, they named it Point du Mardi Gras. In 1702, Pierre founded Mobile. According to the Mobile Carnival Museum, the first Mardi Gras was celebrated in Mobile in 1703, followed by the first Carnival in 1711. Both occurred Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday” in French, is a Catholic celebration that has its roots in a Paris festival. Mardi Gras is always the day before Lent, a period of fasting and self-control. Mardi Gras was likely introduced to North America by French colonists in New Orleans around the early 1700s with impromptu parades and bystanders catching Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana is an iconic celebration that welcomes nearly 1.5 million visitors each year, so it’s no surprise that planning your first visit to this world-famous holiday can be quite the daunting task. We had the joy of visiting our first Mardi Gras in 2023 and came up with a list of the top things that we think every Mardi Gras goer could benefit from knowing before If you're fascinated by the history and cultural significance behind Mardi Gras, Dean recommends watching a documentary or two during Fat Tuesday. She recommends Buckjumping and All On A Mardi Of all the American cities to throw one last celebration before Lent, New Orleans is the best known, thanks to its full-throated carnival on “Fat Tuesday,” or Mardi Gras. Culture Trip takes a look at the traditions and quirks of this famous festival to give you a better understanding of just how integral it is to Louisiana culture. While this is a must-do during any other weekend in New Orleans, it's especially important during Mardi Gras. Step away from the Hand Grenade on Bourbon Street and head to Frenchmen Street, Tipitina's, One Eyed Jacks, Gasa Gasa, you get the idea. If you're in town for Mardi Gras, you can expect the live performances to be downright legendary. Despite what you might have heard, Mardi Gras actually is a family-friendly event. Image courtesy of Mills Baker via Flickr. 2. Carnival Veterans Go Long, Not Hard. Given that Mardi Gras is the culmination of a month-long party, any skillful local will avoid drinking the whole keg in a single night. Translated as “Fat Tuesday” in French, Mardi Gras has been celebrated in the city on Shrove Tuesday since the early 1700s. Festivities kick off on the Epiphany on January 6 and revelry peaks in the final week, with elaborate parades, costume wearing, jazz performances and nightly street parties attracting about 1.4 million visitors to New This one that says let’s celebrate with traditional Mardi Gras colors is super cute. I also love this watercolor digital invite. 3. Make your menu. Mardi Gras is a big deal in South Louisiana, so Cajun and Creole fare is typical! To me, making the menu is the easiest way to capture that Louisiana flair for your Mardi Gras celebration. Check when Mardi Gras celebrations will be happening this year. Mardi Gras takes place on the day before Ash Wednesday, in late February or early March. Since this holiday falls on a different day each year, check your calendar ahead of time to make sure you don’t miss it. In 2023, Mardi Gras will take place on February 21. There are ways to to celebrate Mardi Gras in 2018, even if you're stuck at home. You can get lots of good food and drinks, and they'll probably have some specials for Mardi Gras as well. 9 “If you can’t find it in New Orleans during Mardi Gras, it probably doesn’t exist.” Mardi Gras in New Orleans is pure magic. It’s not just about a great party, it’s this whole vibe that takes over the city—the Big Easy just knows how to Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler (the cajun-french saying that means Let The Good Times Roll). If you don’t sparkle, you’re underdressed for Mardi Gras! Bead me up, Scotty. Don’t worry, bead happy. Life ain’t perfect, but your Mardi Gras outfit definitely can be. You know I’m only here for the food NOLA: Notoriously Outrageous Loony Antics. Mardi Gras, because everyone needs a little As anyone who’s lived in Louisiana knows, Mardi Gras is always a special time. If you’re new to the large-than-life celebration that is Mardi Gras, here are nine local-approved tips to keep in The ‘First Mardi Gras Together’ Couple whos Gras will inevitably conclude in an orgy; The Interstate Gays who just couldn’t stay away and have money to burn; The International Gays who I image via Mardi Gras is one of the biggest, loudest, most colorful street parties out there, so if you’re planning a trip to New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras in style, read on because we’ve put together this handy guide that’ll have you navigating the celebrations like a pro. In this article, we’ll cover: What Mardi Transportation Tips for Mardi Gras . If you’re visiting NOLA during Mardi Gras, getting around requires some planning since many streets are closed for parades. The best way to get around is by using public transportation, ride shares, or your good old feet. Pro Tip: Stay near the parade routes to save your energy for the festivities. Transportation Tips for Mardi Gras 2025. If you’re visiting NOLA during Mardi Gras, getting around requires some planning since many streets are closed for parades. Public transportation, ride shares, and walking are your best options. Pro Tip: Stay near the parade routes to save your energy for the festivities.
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