Let’s walk through the traditions, crafts, and activities that make Mardi Gras a special family-friendly experience. Introduction to Mardi Gras for Families Brief History of Mardi Gras and its Cultural Roots. Mardi Gras, with its roots in Christian traditions, signifies the “last hurrah” before the fasting season of Lent. Fun & Easy Mardi Gras Activities for Kids 1. Make a Mardi Gras Mask Let’s make this fun Mardi Gras mask! Mardi Gras Mask Craft – Decorate a mask using paint, feather and classic Mardi Gras beads. There is even a free printable! Another homemade Mardi Gras mask idea is to use a paper plate! Mardi Gras games can bring a party to life with the spirit of indulgence, exhilaration, and boisterous fun characteristics of this wild holiday. From Mardi Gras carnival games to easy party activities to bead toss games, there are many different outrageous party game ideas available to turn a plain Mardi Gras party into a boisterous celebration. Of course, Hurricanes are the unofficial drink of Mardi Gras, but if you’re hosting a party with kids, you can opt for a big pitcher of virgin Hurricanes for everyone to enjoy. If you aren’t in the mood for a Hurricane, the adults can enjoy these other classic Mardi Gras drinks. Fun Mardi Gras Party Activities for the Whole Family 12. Mardi Gras Bird Mask. We found another easy-to-make mask your kids will love wearing to their friends’ parties. You can use a bird mask template or cut out the shapes you desire from paper plates. Use paint, feathers, glitter, beads, string, and glue to bring your bird mask idea to life! Learn More: Happy Brown House. 13. Mardi Gras Trivia! Mardi Gras, which in French means “Fat Tuesday”, is also known as Shrove Tuesday, Pancake Day, and Dollar day. In the United States, we think about Mardi Gras as just being a New Orleans tradition, but the holiday is celebrated in many other parts of America, and even around the world such as France and Italy. Family-Friendly Events – Dedicated parades and activities make Galveston’s Mardi Gras an excellent choice for families. Balcony Parties & VIP Viewing – Historic buildings in The Strand District offer a prime way to experience Mardi Gras with exclusive access to balcony parties. Bring the whole family to enjoy Mardi Gras! Galveston. Krewe of Barkus & Meoux Parade: Watch adorable pets in costumes steal the show. Mardi Gras Chicken Run: A quirky and fun-filled event that’s always a hit with kids. Interactive Parades: Kids will love catching beads and waving to the vibrant floats. Mardi Gras with Kids Day 1: French Quarter and New Orleans Riverfront. Start your Mardi Gras family trip with some of the most iconic and kid-friendly New Orleans and Mardi Gras attractions. The French Quarter will see some hard-core partying at night, but will be almost empty if you go early in the day. As your kids grow older, navigating Mardi Gras becomes easier, and the experience can transform into a cherished family tradition. Here’s a guide to making the most of Mardi Gras at every age and stage, with tips on kid-friendly parades that will keep everyone smiling (at least for the most part!). The Early Years: Babies and Toddlers There is never a shortage of things to do in New Orleans with kids, but Mardi Gras takes the (king) cake! If you are looking for family-friendly Mardi Gras events in New Orleans and the surrounding area, we have you covered for 2025! 2025 Guide to New Orleans Mardi Gras Events and Camps. It’s time to bust out the green, purple and gold! Mardi Gras is a time of vibrant celebrations, exuberant parades, and festive parties, filled with music, dancing, and of course, games! If you're looking to make your Mardi Gras event unforgettable, adding some lively Mardi Gras games can take your party to the next level. Whether you're hosting a large celebration or a more intimate gathering, incorporating traditional and original Mardi Gras Orpheus (Monday before Mardi Gras): Known for creative floats and sought-after throws like four-foot stuffed dragons and custom-decorated tambourines. Zulu (Mardi Gras Day): Beloved for its unique throws, including the iconic hand-decorated coconuts. Rex (Mardi Gras Day): One of the oldest and most traditional parades, featuring a regal The St. Marys Family Gras event, held from 1-4 PM at the St. Marys Waterfront Park, is designed to delight visitors of all ages. Kids will be in heaven with a Kids Court featuring a Lucky Ducks game, football toss, Mardi Gras mask making, face painting, and more. Click on the Mardi Gras krewes below for further information about the krewe and to see their usual route for each parade. Please note: Events and activities are subject to change without notice. Stay tuned to the site for further info. Mardi Gras Family Fun Activities. 1/31- Mardi Gras Story Time Krotz Springs. 2/3 -Kids Mardi Gras Mask Decorating-Morse Library. 2/4 - Adults Cajun Mardi Gras Mask Class - Mermentau Library. 2/5 - Adults Cajun Mardi Gras Mask Class - Morse Library . 2/6 - Kids Mardi Gras Mask Decorating - Mermentau Library. 2/15 - 2/16 Acadiana Renaissance
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
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