New Orleans Mardi Gras or ‘Fat Tuesday’ is one of the biggest parties in the USA and very distinct from the Rio Carnival or the Trinidad Carnival, Port of Spain.
Processions and floats pass by, organised by krewes, many of which have been around for decades and have intriguing names like Bacchus, Endymion, or the Knights of Chaos. These floats may be visually stunning, or be aimed to make you laugh, or to satirise some human failing.
They parade in the weeks leading up to the main event, so if everything is booked up, consider the run up as an alternative. There are also many dancing troupes and marching clubs that swell the numbers, all in glittering costumes. And there are rules, and order and a big police presence.
Remember that the parade route for the Mardi Gras New Orleans Louisiana and the partying in the French Quarter are very different things.
The parades are family orientated, whilst wild adult behaviour is tolerated in the French Quarter during Mardi Gras in New Orleans, though be sure to keep your valuables and cell phone very secure. Make sure you choose the right place for you.
The city holds the Family Gras that is another event for those wishing to bring children. It has a Carnival atmosphere, parades, music and local cuisine. There is also the Lundi Gras on the Monday when the Carnival monarchs and the mayor of the city arrive at the waterfront and are greeted by music, food and drinks.
New Orleans Mardi Gras History and Origins
The celebration began as a medieval tradition and was part of the French tradition, when the rich food that was brought out to the colonies was eaten up the day before Lent. The first celebrations were held in Fort Louis in Mobile in 1703. By the 1730s it had spread to New Orleans, though more in the form of organised balls. By at least the 1780s there was a “Carnival” here, and by the 1830s there were processions around the streets by torchlight.
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The New Orleans Mardi Gras King Cake
Traditionally iced in green, purple and gold, these have long been associated with Mardi Gras in New Orleans. The dough has a fruit filling and somewhere in there is a small plastic baby. If you get the baby in your portion, then it’s your turn to buy the next cake.
When Is 2026 Mardi Gras in New Orleans Louisiana?
Asking ‘Mardi gras is when in New Orleans’? The answer is The New Orleans Mardi Gras is on 17 February 2026.
Things to Do in New Orleans Louisisana
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Beforehand Bookings for Your Accommodation
When planning a group trip to New Orleans—whether it’s with family, friends, or colleagues—booking the right accommodation can make all the difference. Larger hotels often offer practical benefits for group travellers, such as spacious multi-room suites, shared lounges, and on-site services that simplify coordination and downtime. These conveniences create a more comfortable and connected experience for everyone involved. Hotel Perle is a great example of this, with its roomy suites and thoughtfully designed communal areas that cater perfectly to group needs. Since New Orleans gets especially busy during events like Mardi Gras, it’s wise to book early to secure the best location and rates. Once lodging is sorted, planning the rest—flights, packing essentials, and itinerary—becomes much easier.
Flights to New Orleans
There are direct international flights to the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport from Toronto, London, Frankfurt, Cancun and Panama City as well as domestic flights from major US cities.
During your trip, if you carry clothes, documents, etc., you can use Luggage Tags. Customized luggage tags can be printed with the beautiful scenery of your hometown or engraved with inspiring travel mottos. They can not only instantly bring travellers from all over the world closer together, but also prevent luggage from being lost in crowded places.
More information on New Orleans Mardi Gras 2026
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