Planning Your Trip to Mardi Gras 2026 in New Orleans: A Complete Guide

Mardi Gras 2026 is here! Mardi Gras Day falls on February 17, 2026, but in New Orleans, the celebration lasts for weeks. Parades, parties, and events begin January 6, kicking off the official start of Carnival season and bringing the city to life with music, food, and traditions you won’t find anywhere else.

Whether this is your first time experiencing Mardi Gras or you’re a seasoned Carnival pro, this guide covers everything you need to know for Mardi Gras 2026 in New Orleans. From key parade dates and must-know event details to local tips that will help you navigate the city like a pro, we’re here to help you plan your trip with confidence. Let’s dive in and start planning your Mardi Gras 2026 getaway!

When is Mardi Gras 2026?

This year’s Mardi Gras is on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

Carnival runs from January 6th (Twelfth Night) to the big day (and the biggest celebration) on February 17th (Fat Tuesday). Technically, Mardi Gras itself is the last day of Carnival, but the parties, parades, balls, and celebrations are happening throughout the entire season. 

Most locals use “Mardi Gras” to refer to the final two weekends leading up to Fat Tuesday. This is when the city truly comes alive, with the biggest parades, the most events, and the highest energy across New Orleans.

When to Visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras 2026 

The most popular time to visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras is the final long weekend before Fat Tuesday. In 2026, the peak time to visit falls on February 11-17, 2026, which also happens to coincide with Valentine’s Day and Presidents’ Day weekend. With multiple holidays overlapping, lodging and restaurant reservations will be in especially high demand.

To secure the best options, we recommend booking your stay early, especially if you want to be near the parade routes or within walking distance of major festivities. Browse our New Orleans vacation rentals along the parade routes to see current Mardi Gras 2026 availability (and if you’re already thinking ahead, early booking is key for next year too)! 

The Best 2026 Mardi Gras Parades

What are the different Mardi Gras parades (and what is a Krewe)?

In New Orleans, Mardi Gras revolves around the Krewes — the organizations that create the parades and events that define the season. There are hundreds of Krewes in New Orleans, each with its own history, traditions, themes, parade types, and signature “throws.” 

Each Krewe designs its own parade reflecting its unique identity and themes. No two Mardi Gras parades are exactly alike!

Mardi Gras 2026 Parade Schedules

In 2026, parades are scheduled from January 6th (Twelfth Night) to February 17th (Fat Tuesday), but most parades run during the last three weekends of Carnival season. 

The biggest, most well-known krewes are scheduled for the final weekend before Fat Tuesday, February 11-17, 2026. 

Parade schedules can change, so look for updates before attending key events. You can find the specifics on most parade schedules and routes here. 

Find a parade schedule overview for Mardi Gras 2026 below.

January 30-February 1, 2026:

The first major parade weekend includes the Krewe du Vieux, known for its satirical floats and adult humor, and the Krewe of Little Rascals, a great kid-friendly option.

February 6-8, 2026: 

Some favorites this weekend include the all-female Krewe of Cleopatra, Krewe of Excalibur (who throw wooden shields and hand-decorated dragon eggs), and the Barkus dog parade.

February 11-17, 2026:

The final weekend hosts the largest and oldest Krewes – Endymion, Bacchus, Orpheus, Zulu, and Rex – all in one long weekend. Also worth seeing are Krewe of Iris, the oldest all-female Krewe, and Krewe of Tucks, known for its satiric humor (like toilet-themed floats) and fun throws.

Find a full schedule and parade routes for your favorites here. 

Must-See Mardi Gras Parades for 2026

Endymion — February 14, 2026 at 4:00 PM (Mid-City)

The largest and most extravagant parade of Mardi Gras, featuring enormous illuminated floats, celebrity riders, and an electric atmosphere, ending with the Endymion Extravaganza, a huge after-party with live music and thousands of attendees.

Bacchus — February 15, 2026 at 5:15 PM (Uptown)

A crowd favorite known for its over-the-top floats and theatrical themes led by this year’s parade king, Patrick Warburton, and followed by the Bacchus Ball.

Orpheus — February 16, 2026 at 6:00 PM (Uptown)

A huge show with floats with fiber-optic lighting, steam locomotive theming,  a horse-drawn bus, and throws including light-up beads, three different types of doubloons, four-foot stuffed dragons, and custom-decorated tambourines. 

Zulu – February 17, 2026 at 8:00 AM (Uptown)

Famous for its hand-decorated coconuts, an iconic signature throw you’ll want to get your hands on, and iconic for its blend of humor, creativity, and tradition.

Rex — February 17, 2026 at 10:30 AM (Uptown)

The “King of Carnival,” one of the oldest and most traditional parades, known for its royal elegance, colorful floats, and the iconic “Boeuf Gras” float.

Most Unique Mardi Gras Parades for 2026

Chewbacchus — January 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM (Marigny)

A sci-fi and pop-culture-themed parade celebrating Star Wars and other popular fandoms in the most fun way possible.

Krewe du Vieux — January 31, 2026 at 6:30 PM (French Quarter)

Known for its risque content, adult humor, and political comedy, with some of the best jazz and brass bands in NOLA.

Barkus — February 8, 2026 at 2:00 PM (French Quarter)

A French Quarter dog parade featuring costumed pups as the stars of the show.

Krewe of Tucks — February 14, 2026 at 12:00 PM (Uptown)

A fun parade known for its irreverent humor and playful vibe, from toilet-themed floats to quirky throws.

Kid-Friendly Mardi Gras Parades for 2026

Krewe of Little Rascals — February 1, 2026 at 12:00 PM (Metairie)

A family-friendly parade with child riders and fun themes.

Krewe of Cleopatra — February 6, 2026 at 6:00 PM (Uptown)

A typically less-crowded parade with an all-female crew and the best throws for kids (light-up toys, makeup glitter, funny themed chip clips).

Krewe of Mid-City — February 15, 2026 11:45 AM (Uptown)

Known for its vibrant floats and an upbeat atmosphere that kids love.

Krewe of Thoth – February 15, 2026 at 12:00 PM (Uptown)

An early parade perfect for families, thrown by a Krewe that does an incredible amount of volunteer work for the children’s hospital.

Special Events for Mardi Gras 2026

Family Gras (February 6-7, 2026)

A FREE family-friendly celebration in the Metairie neighborhood on Veterans Memorial Boulevard (across from Lakeside Shopping Center), filled with parades, authentic New Orleans cuisine, local art, children’s activities, and free outdoor concerts and entertainment. 

Endymion Extravaganza (February 14, 2026)

A massive, star-studded event featuring live music and celebrity appearances, held in Caesars Superdome with headliners Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton. Ticket prices range from $260-300.

Bacchus Bash (February 15, 2026)

A big all-day Mardi Gras block party on Super Sunday (the Sunday before Mardi Gras) featuring live music, DJs, and VIP open bar ticket options to celebrate their historic parade. Pricing ranges from $75-600. 

Orpheuscapade (February 16, 2026)

A black-tie affair hosted at the Ernest Morial Convention Center, with 2026 monarch Noah Wylie. Ticket prices are $250 and up for table seating, drink set-ups, and up-close parade viewing.

Insider Tips for Mardi Gras 2026

Do I need Mardi Gras Tickets?

No, you don’t need to buy Mardi Gras tickets. All of the parades and celebrations are completely free, and it’s not necessary to pay for a spot. That said, if standing for extended periods isn’t your thing, you can purchase tickets to reserve a seat. 

Where to Stay for Mardi Gras in New Orleans 2026

Mardi Gras parades roll through several neighborhoods throughout Carnival season, but the main parade route runs from Napoleon Avenue along St. Charles Avenue in Uptown, continuing all the way to Canal Street in the Central Business District. Where you stay can shape your entire Mardi Gras experience, so it’s worth choosing a neighborhood that matches your travel style. 

Uptown: Ideal for guests who want easy access to the parade routes while enjoying a quieter, more residential feel. This area is especially popular with families and visitors who prefer daytime parades and a calmer atmosphere once the festivities wind down.

Central Business District: Best for those who want to be right in the middle of the action. Staying Downtown puts you close to major parade endpoints, events, restaurants, and the French Quarter — though it’s a busier, more energetic area during Mardi Gras.

Mid-City:  A great middle ground, offering convenient access to parade routes (within walking distance to Endymion, the biggest parade), streetcar lines, and popular attractions. Mid-City works well for guests who want flexibility without staying directly in the busiest areas.

Browse our Book NOLA properties to find the perfect home base for your stay. Properties near the parade routes book quickly, especially for Mardi Gras 2026, so we recommend reserving early — or reaching out to our team for current availability and local advice.

Transportation Tips for Mardi Gras 2026

During Mardi Gras in New Orleans, many streets are closed for parades, so you’ll have to do some planning to get around. We recommend using public transportation and ride shares or walking.

Pro Tip: Stay near the parade routes to make getting there easy.

Driving: We don’t recommend driving when you’re here for Mardi Gras. Traffic during the entire Carnival season is incredibly congested, barricades are often set up for parades and events, and parking is tricky. During Mardi Gras weekend, the French Quarter is closed to vehicular traffic, and parking anywhere nearby is impossible. 

Public Transportation: We love using public transportation in New Orleans, but streetcar and bus routes often change during Carnival season. Be sure to use the RTA GoMobile app for up-to-date routes and schedules. 

Ride Share: You can use ride share services like Uber and Lyft during Mardi Gras, but pricing and wait times surge during peak parade hours. Insider tip: Make sure you’re not “in the box,” the area between Canal Street and Napoleon Avenue along the parade routes, when calling for an Uber or Lyft – they won’t be able to get to you.

Walking or Biking: If you’re staying close enough to the action, walking or renting a bike is really your best bet. Though if you do ride your bike, be sure to lock it up when not in use.

If you’re staying with us at Book NOLA, we’re happy to help you figure out the best way to navigate the city during your Mardi Gras stay.

When to Get to the Parades

If you’re hoping to claim a prime spot for a popular parade, plan to arrive at the parade route several hours early (but not more than 4 hours before). This is especially important during the busy weekend leading up to Fat Tuesday, when major parades (like Bacchus on Sunday night) draw the largest crowds. You can always arrive later — you just might have to stand a few rows back from the action.

Some of the best places to watch the parades include Canal Street and Lafayette Square, while St. Charles Avenue (out of the box) is more comfortable for families. 

Catching Throws

Throws are the beads, cups, doubloons, stuffed animals, and signature items tossed from floats during Mardi Gras—and catching them is part of the fun!

Bring a bag to carry your goodies – you’ll collect more than you expect. To improve your chances of catching a throw, make eye contact with riders, smile, wave, hold up a sign, or call out asking them to “throw me something, mister!” Most throws are beads and small items, but keep an eye out for prized signature throws like Zulu coconuts, Muses glittered shoes, and Orpheus stuffed dragons.

If a throw lands on the ground, step on it and wait for a safe moment to grab it—never reach down while floats are moving or get into a tug-of-war over items. There’s always more coming as the next float rolls by.

Mardi Gras Safety Tips

During Mardi Gras, the city of New Orleans takes extra precautions to keep the celebrations running smoothly. Still, with large crowds and busy streets, it’s always a good idea to be proactive about your own safety. Here are a few Mardi Gras safety tips we always share with guests:

Stay Together:  Crowds can get dense, especially near parade routes. Stick close to your group and choose a meeting spot ahead of time in case anyone gets separated.

Keep Valuables Secure:  Opt for a crossbody bag or fanny pack to keep your belongings safe, and carry only what you need. Skip large amounts of cash and valuables, and keep phones and wallets out of sight, as pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas.

Keep Your Phone Charged: A fully charged phone helps you stay connected, navigate the city, and coordinate plans. A portable charger is a smart backup, especially on long parade days.

Be Aware Around Parades: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially near floats, barricades, and intersections. When crossing the street outside parade zones, watch carefully for traffic.

Drink Responsibly: Mardi Gras is a celebration, but pacing yourself is key. Drink water throughout the day, eat regular meals, and know your limits so you can enjoy the festivities safely. 

Skip the FQ with Kids: During Mardi Gras, the French Quarter becomes very adult-oriented, with revealing costumes and risqué behavior like flashing for beads. Families will have a much better experience along Uptown parade routes and at daytime events.

Stand Back for the Bands: When parades roll through, it’s common to push in close, right up to the floats. But when bands come through, always step back onto the curb. Drumlines move fast — and those drumsticks swing wide. Trust us that you don’t want to get hit in the face!

What to Wear for Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras weather in New Orleans can be unpredictable, with temperatures shifting from cool mornings to warm afternoons, so dressing in layers is your best bet. 

Since you’ll likely be walking and standing for long stretches, comfortable footwear like sneakers or supportive flats is a must (and no open-toed shoes!). 

Also, bring rain gear. Parades roll rain or shine, so a lightweight poncho, rain jacket, or compact umbrella can make a big difference if showers pop up.

And of course, part of the fun is dressing the part! Whether you go all-in with costumes, masks, and festive accessories or keep it simple with purple, green, and gold (the official Mardi Gras colors), joining in on the Mardi Gras style is all part of the experience.

The Mardi Gras Experience Beyond Parades

Parades may be the centerpiece of Carnival season, but they’re just one part of the Mardi Gras experience. One must-do tradition is enjoying a slice of King Cake, a colorful treat with a tiny plastic baby hidden inside. Find the baby, and you’re crowned “king” or “queen” for the day — and responsible for buying the next King Cake or hosting the next celebration.

If you’re craving savory, dive into classic New Orleans dishes like po’boy, gumbo, or jambalaya. Follow it up with a beignet – you won’t be sorry!

Live music is everywhere during Carnival. Wander through Frenchmen Street, Armstrong Park, and along Bourbon Street to catch everything from spontaneous brass bands to world-class jazz. 

Celebrate Mardi Gras 2026

Ready for a New Orleans experience unlike any other? We can’t wait to welcome you and help you immerse yourself in the unique spirit of the Big Easy. 

To join in on the 2026 Mardi Gras celebrations, book your stay in one of our New Orleans vacation rentals right in the heart of the action.

Laissez les bons temps rouler — let the good times roll!