Mardi Gras in New Orleans is arguably the best party you'll find in the United States. Every year over a million people travel to New Orleans to join in the fun during Carnival season, which begins on January 6, known as Epiphany or Twelfth Night, and lasts until Mardi Gras or "Fat Tuesday." What is the History of Mardi Gras? Mardi Gras originated in New Orleans the day Iberville stood on our land in 1699. Since then, balls have become a tradition of the season to represent members of society. From the past to the present, Mardi Gras is full of traditions. Mardi Gras balls began in the 1700s and still exist today. Mardi Gras in New Orleans: what to eat, drink and do. From king cakes and costumes to parades and parties, here's what to know about Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Wednesday January 22 2025. New Orleans is cranking up the volume for Mardi Gras 2025, and there’s excitement in the air for what is often hailed as the greatest free show on earth. This iconic festival, culminating on Tuesday, March 4, is deeply rooted in Christian and Roman Catholic traditions but has evolved into a secular celebration. This guide includes tips on things you can do in New Orleans during Mardi Gras 2025, when Mardi Gras 2025 takes place, key parade schedules, Mardi Gras viewing locations, tips on finding accommodation during Mardi Gras, and more! This post is based on our personal experiences of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. 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. There’s nothing quite like Mardi Gras in New Orleans. One of the world’s most iconic celebrations – and definitely one of the most well-known experiences in New Orleans – Mardi Gras is a mix of parades, music, food, and local culture that takes over the city for an experience like no other. 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. Most people from outside of New Orleans think Mardi Gras and they think the French Quarter. Many of the parades travel by the French Quarter on Canal Street, but some of the best spots to see the parades isn’t anywhere near the Vieux Carre. Grandstands. If you want to be as close to the action as possible but don’t want to stand in crowds, then booking into one of the grandstands is an excellent idea.. When it comes to figuring out where to watch the Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans, you won’t be surprised to learn that the grandstands are highly popular. Mardi Gras is a Christian holiday and popular cultural phenomenon that dates back thousands of years to pagan spring and fertility rites. It's most famously celebrated with parades in New Orleans Why does New Orleans celebrate Mardi Gras? Although it is a Christian holiday now, Mardi Gras is a holiday that dates back thousands of years to pagan spring and fertility rites, according to the 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. 📍 New Orleans, Louisiana. Ahh, Mardi Gras. Even if you’ve never stepped foot in Louisiana, you’re probably well aware of this extravagant festival. Every year, an approximate 1.5 million people celebrate Carnival Season in The Big Easy, pumping an already vibrant city with an intense level of vibrancy emanating from excited tourists. Mardi Gras is about music, parades, picnics, floats and excitement. It's one big holiday in New Orleans! Revelers know to wear costumes or at least dress in purple, green, and gold, and adorn themselves with long beads caught from the floats of previous parades. Mardi Gras Day is March 4, 2025. Fat Tuesday is the last day of the Carnival season as it always falls the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. The official start of Carnival Season is Twelfth Night, January 6. Book your hotel room now and Reserve your Mardi Gras package. Want to know more about Mardi Gras in New Orleans?
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |