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. In 2025, Mardi Gras falls on Tuesday, March 4—Dive into the excitement, grab some beads, and let the good times roll. Mardi Gras conjures images of vibrant beads flying through the air, lively crowds filling the streets, and the unmistakable energy of Bourbon Street. But beyond the whirlwind of parades and parties, this legendary celebration Top tips for a great Mardi Gras. Pick your procession Parades carouse through New Orleans on different routes. All the parades are fun, but check times and locations so that you don’t miss the ones likeliest to strike your fancy. Zulu and Rex are always a good bet. The parade scene gets rowdier and more crowded as Mardi Gras approaches. With Rex, Zulu, doubloons, flambeaus, and king cake, Mardi Gras may sound confusing, but we’ve created the ultimate guide to help you understand all things Mardi Gras. Book your trip and head on down to New Orleans for the greatest and most historic celebration on earth. If you have a costume, great. If not, just bring comfortable clothes. You can buy Mardi Gras accessories when you get there! Think boas, jackets, and masks. Somebody forgot to take the cap off her jello shot. New Orleans Mardi Gras Tips Mardi Gras Safety Tips. Keep your valuables locked down. I mean really locked down. First-Timers New Orleans Mardi Gras Guide. Mardi Gras, which means “Fat Tuesday” in French, is a carnival celebration that takes place in many parts of the world, but is especially famous in the city of New Orleans, Louisiana. The festival is held annually on the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Christian season of Most locals refer to Mardi Gras as the final two weekends of the celebration, when most of the parades and events take place. When to Visit for Mardi Gras in New Orleans. You can visit any time during Carnival (between January 6th and March 4th, 2025) to experience parades and festivities. In New Orleans, it is a time of colorful pageantry and raucous celebrations that honor the diverse cultural influences of the city. From traditional brass bands to vibrant parades, the festival is a living testament to the community’s deep roots in French, Spanish, and Creole heritage. The Dates for Mardi Gras 2024, 2025, and 2026. In the This ultimate guide explores Mardi Gras New Orleans 2025, from dazzling Mardi Gras Parade celebrations to sweet King Cakes. Dive into parades, balls, local traditions, and tips for an unforgettable Carnival journey. Let the spirit of “Fat Tuesday” ignite your New Orleans adventure! Now! 12 Helpful Tips to Keep You Safe During Carnival. Mardi Gras is a glorious time for New Orleans: merriment, laughter, and spectacle abound all around. With all of the floats, throws, and music, it can be dazzling and intoxicating. Mardi Gras Tips: Best Hotels to stay for Mardi Gras Paroma’s tips. In 2013, stayed at the New Orleans Courtyard Hotel, a stone’s throw from the famous French quarters (where most of the action happens). This restored Creole mansion is also a 10 minute walk from NOLA’s famous French Market which is a great place for shopping and grabbing a 2 – Bring a raincoat. Or a trash bag. Or a cheap poncho you can purchase from any convenience store like CVS or Walgreens. Umbrellas are okay, but you want to be careful not to obstruct other people’s view at the parade.
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