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Everything You Need to Know About Mardi Gras 2025 in New Orleans

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Mardi Gras 2025 is almost here! If you plan to experience the magic of Carnival season in New Orleans, you’re in for an unforgettable celebration filled with parades, music, food, and tradition. 

This year, Mardi Gras feels even more meaningful. After the challenges our city faced following the terror attack on New Year’s Day, New Orleans is ready to show its strength, resilience, and spirit. With enhanced safety measures and the always-welcoming atmosphere that makes New Orleans special, 2025 promises to be a year where the good times roll like never before.

We have an all-in-one Mardi Gras guide with additional details about the celebration year-to-year, but we’ve created this guide as your go-to resource specifically for planning Mardi Gras 2025. From this year’s key parade and event dates to updated safety info and local insights, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and start planning your Mardi Gras 2025 experience! 

When is Mardi Gras 2025?

When is Mardi Gras 2025?

French for “Fat Tuesday,” Mardi Gras is the end of the Carnival season, which officially kicks off on January 6th (Twelfth Night) and ends just before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. 

Parades, music, balls, costumes, and celebrations occur throughout the entire Carnival season, starting on January 6th, but Mardi Gras itself is technically the final day, Fat Tuesday. 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. 

But the most popular time to book a stay includes the final weekend leading up to Mardi Gras Day (Fat Tuesday). This year, those dates will be around February 26th – March 4, 2025. 

Major Parades Weekends for Mardi Gras 2025:

February 14-16, 2025: The first major parade weekend, there are 11 parades scheduled for this weekend, including the Krewe du Vieux, known for its satirical floats and adult humor, and Krewe of Little Rascals, a great kid-friendly option.

February 21-23, 2025: There are a whopping 23 parades scheduled for this weekend! Highlights include the all-female Krewe of Cleopatra, Krewe of Excalibur (who throw wooden shields and hand-decorated dragon eggs), and the Barkus dog parade.

March 1-4, 2025: The final weekend is when Mardi Gras reaches its peak! Must-see parades include the largest and oldest Krewes – Endymion, Bacchus, Orpheus, Zulu, and Rex – all in one long weekend. You’ll also see Krewe of Iris, the oldest all-female Krewe, and Krewe of Tucks, known for its satiric humor (think toilet-themed floats) and fun throws.

A Note About Super Bowl 2025

You should also note that there are no Mardi Gras parades on the weekend of February 7 – 9, 2025, due to New Orleans hosting Super Bowl LIX. But there will certainly be other fun events happening that weekend!

The Best 2025 Mardi Gras Parades 

What is a Krewe?

Mardi Gras in New Orleans 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’s parade reflects its unique identity, often followed by exclusive, members-only balls. Most of these events are invite-only, adding to the intrigue around the Krewe. The dedication and creativity of these groups are what make Mardi Gras such a vibrant and unforgettable celebration!

Mardi Gras 2025 Parade Schedules

Each year, the Mardi Gras parade schedule varies. Parades run for several weeks, from Twelfth Night on January 6th to Fat Tuesday (which is March 4th this year). 

As described above, most of the major parades take place in the two weeks leading up to Mardi Gras, with the biggest ones happening on the weekend before Fat Tuesday, March 1-4, 2025.


For a full schedule of parades, including times and routes, check out parade schedules and routes so you know where to be (and not to be). Parades and events may vary slightly, so keeping an eye on updates is key to catching your favorites.

Must-See Mardi Gras Parades for 2025

Endymion (March 1, 2025): Endymion is the largest and most extravagant parade of Mardi Gras, featuring enormous illuminated floats, celebrity riders, and an electric atmosphere. The parade culminates in the Endymion Extravaganza, a massive after-party with live music and thousands of attendees.

Bacchus (March 2, 2025): Known for its theatrical themes and over-the-top floats, this lively parade is a crowd favorite. Don’t miss this year’s parade king, Shaquille O’Neal, leading the festivities.

Orpheus (March 3, 2025): This massive super Krewe puts on quite the show with floats with fiber-optic lighting, steam locomotive theming, and a horse-drawn bus. Throws include light-up beads, three different types of doubloons, four-foot stuffed dragons, and custom-decorated tambourines. 

Zulu (March 4, 2025): Famous for its hand-decorated coconuts, an iconic signature throw you’ll want to get your hands on, this parade blends humor, creativity, and tradition, making it one of the most iconic events of Mardi Gras Day.

Rex (March 4, 2025): The “King of Carnival,” Rex is the historic centerpiece of Mardi Gras Day. One of the oldest and most traditional parades, it’s known for its royal elegance, colorful floats, and the iconic “Boeuf Gras” float.

Most Unique Mardi Gras Parades for 2025

Chewbacchus (February 1, 2025): A sci-fi and pop-culture-themed parade that celebrates Star Wars and other popular fandoms in the most fun way possible.

Krewe du Vieux (February 15, 2025): Known for its risque content, adult humor, and political comedy, this parade also includes some of the best jazz and brass bands in NOLA.

Barkus (February 23, 2025): A dog parade in the French Quarter featuring costumed pups as the stars of the show.

Krewe of Tucks (March 1, 2025): Known for its irreverent humor and playful vibe, from toilet-themed floats to quirky throws, this parade is all about having fun.

Kid-Friendly Mardi Gras Parades for 2025

Krewe of Little Rascals (February 16, 2025): A family-friendly parade with child riders and fun themes.

Krewe of Thoth: An early parade that’s perfect for kids, thrown by a Krewe that does an incredible amount of volunteer work for the children’s hospital, this one has a unique route that’s lots of fun.

Krewe of Iris (March 1, 2025): The oldest all-female Krewe, with a focus on elegance and tradition, perfect for families.

Krewe of Mid-City (March 2, 2025): Known for its vibrant floats and upbeat atmosphere that kids love.

Special Mardi Gras Events for 2025

Family Gras (February 21-23, 2025): A FREE family-friendly celebration in the Metairie neighborhood on Veterans Memorial Boulevard (across from Lakeside Shopping Center), this fun weekend is filled with parades, authentic New Orleans cuisine, local art, children’s activities, and free outdoor concerts and entertainment. Grab some jambalaya or gator-on-a-stick and catch parades from the Krewe of Excalibur, the Magical Krewe of MadHatters, and the Krewe of Atlas as they pass by.

Endymion Extravaganza (March 1, 2025): Immediately following their 4:00 PM Mid-City parade, the Krewe of Endymion throws a massive, star-studded event featuring live music and celebrity appearances. In 2025, the event will be held in Caesars Superdome with headliners Katy Perry and Train. Ticket prices range from $260-300.

Bacchus Bash (March 2, 2025): Krewe of Bacchus throws 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 (March 3, 2025): A black-tie affair hosted at the Ernest Morial Convention Center, Orpheuscapade goes from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM following the Krewe of Orpheus parade. Ticket prices are $250 and up for table seating, drink set-ups, and up-close parade viewing.

Insider Tips for Mardi Gras 2025

Do I need Mardi Gras Tickets?

No need to buy Mardis Gras tickets! The parades and celebrations are completely free. If you’d prefer to watch from the stands, you can purchase tickets to reserve a seat, but it’s not necessary — you can enjoy every parade without spending a dime. Seats are mainly recommended for those who may have difficulty standing for extended periods.

Mardi Gras Safety Tips

Mardi Gras is all about fun, but with big crowds and lots of activity, it’s important to stay safe while enjoying the festivities. 

Enhanced Safety Measures for Mardi Gras 2025

In light of the terror attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day, the city is going above and beyond this year to ensure Mardi Gras is a safe and welcoming experience for everyone. The event has been upgraded to a Level One Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR-1), which provides federal resources, including bomb-sniffing dog teams, cybersecurity checks, air patrols, and tactical response teams. You can expect to see increased police presence for parades and events, security checkpoints at large events and near parade routes, and emergency response teams to address any potential issues quickly and effectively.

Personal Safety Tips for Visitors

While the city is taking extra precautions, it’s always a good idea to be proactive about your own safety.

Stick Together:  Stay close to your group, especially in busy areas, to avoid getting separated. Decide on a meeting spot ahead of time, just in case.

Secure Your Valuables:  Use a crossbody bag or fanny pack to keep your belongings safe. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and stay alert to prevent pickpocketing, which is common in crowded areas.

Charge Your Phone: Make sure your phone is fully charged to stay connected and navigate the city. It’s never a bad idea to bring a portable charger for backup.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially near floats and barricades, and watch for traffic when crossing streets outside parade zones.

Drink Responsibly: While Mardi Gras is festive, it’s important to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and know your limits.

Avoid the FQ with Kids: During Mardi Gras, the French Quarter becomes an adult-focused area with risqué behavior like revealing costumes and flashing for beads. There are plenty of family-friendly ways to enjoy Mardi Gras, but the French Quarter isn’t one of them.

Stand Back for the Bands: When the parades roll through, you can get well into the street, right up to the floats. But be sure to stand behind the curb when the bands come through. Not only will the chaperones yell at you to get back, but the drummers will not hold back swinging their drumsticks and you just might get hit in the face.

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.

Driving: The French Quarter is closed to vehicular traffic during Mardi Gras weekend, and parking anywhere nearby is impossible. Traffic during the entire Carnival season is incredibly congested and there are often barricades set up for parades and events, making driving difficult.

Public Transportation: Streetcar and bus routes often change during Carnival season, so be sure to use the RTA GoMobile app for up-to-date routes and schedules. 

Ride Share: Services like Uber and Lyft are available, but expect surge pricing and longer wait times during peak parade hours. Also 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.

Where to Stay for Mardi Gras in New Orleans

You can find parades throughout the season rolling in various neighborhoods, but the main parade route is from Napoleon Avenue down St. Charles Ave in the Uptown Neighborhood to Canal Street in the Central Business District. Depending on your interests, you may want to stay near or further from the parade route. 

Uptown: Perfect for those who want to be near the parade routes but still enjoy a more peaceful, family-friendly neighborhood atmosphere.

Central Business District: Best for those who want to be at the center of the action, just steps away from the French Quarter, though it’s a livelier, busier area.

Mid-City:  A great balance, offering easy access to both parades and nearby attractions.

Browse our Book NOLA properties to find the New Orleans vacation rental that’s perfect for your visit. Mardi Gras accommodations, especially those near the parade route, fill up fast, but you can always contact us for availability. 

What to Wear for Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras weather in New Orleans can be unpredictable, with temperatures swinging from chilly to warm — even within the same day — so dressing in layers is key. Since you’ll be on your feet and walking a lot, make sure to wear comfortable shoes like sneakers or supportive flats.

Also be sure to check the forecast and plan for rain if needed. A lightweight poncho, raincoat, or umbrella is handy, as parades still roll even in light rain.

Finally, don’t forget to embrace the Mardi Gras spirit! Whether you go all out with costumes, masks, and accessories or keep it simple with purple, green, and gold (the official Mardi Gras colors), dressing up is part of the experience.

When to Get to the Parades

To secure a prime spot for a popular parade, plan to arrive at the parade route several hours ahead of time (but not more than 4 hours before), especially during the weekend leading up to Fat Tuesday when major parades (like Bacchus on Sunday night) draw massive crowds. You can always arrive later — you just might have to stand a few rows back from the action.

Prime parade-watching spots include Canal Street and Lafayette Square, while St. Charles Avenue (out of the box) is perfect for family viewing. 

Catching Throws

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

Bring a bag to carry your goodies – you’ll collect lots! To improve your chances of catching a throw, make eye contact with riders, smile, wave, hold up a sign, or yell out asking them to throw something. While most throws are beads and small items, 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, place your foot on it and wait for a safe moment to grab it—never reach down during the parade or get into a tug-of-war over items. There’s always more on the way as the next float rolls by.

The Mardi Gras Experience Beyond Parades

While there are tons of parades to view during Carnival season, it’s not the only way to get into the spirit. Indulge in a slice of King Cake, a Mardi Gras tradition where a tiny plastic baby is hidden within colorful treats. Whoever finds the baby is “king” or “queen” for the day and is in charge of buying the next King Cake or hosting the next celebration.

If savory is more your thing, go for something a little more savory, like a classic New Orleans po’boy, gumbo, or jambalaya. Follow it up with a beignet – you won’t be sorry!

Go out seeking live music throughout the city, including Frenchmen Street, Armstrong Park, and along Bourbon Street. From impromptu brass bands to world-class jazz, there’s always something to discover. 

Celebrate Mardi Gras 2025

Celebrate Mardi Gras 2025

Mardi Gras is more than an event—it’s an experience. Whether you’re tasting your first King Cake, dancing to a brass band on Frenchmen Street, collecting a bag full of signature throws, or marveling at the creativity of a parade float, every moment immerses you in the spirit of New Orleans. 

Ready to start planning your 2025 Mardi Gras trip? Our vacation rentals put you right in the heart of the action, offering a comfortable and convenient home base for all your Mardi Gras adventures. Properties fill up fast for this iconic New Orleans celebration, so be sure to book your stay sooner rather than later.

We can’t wait to help you discover what’s so special about Carnival season in NOLA. Let the good times roll!


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