For many unfamiliar with Mardi Gras, it might seem like just a day of revelry or something similar to Brazil’s Carnival. But in reality, Mardi Gras in the United States is a season steeped in history, community, and pure, unadulterated joy. If you’re searching for a February travel destination, these cities hosting Mardi Gras celebrations offer the chance to explore a city while joining in a grand party.
In this guide, we will provide you with detailed information about Mardi Gras 2026. From the birth of the celebration in Mobile to the massive “Super Krewes” of New Orleans and the family-friendly fun in Galveston and St. Louis, here is your roadmap to the best Mardi Gras yet.
Table of Contents
What Is Mardi Gras and Why Is It Celebrated?
When Is Mardi Gras 2026
Top Cities Celebrating Mardi Gras
What Is Mardi Gras and Why Is It Celebrated?
Mardi Gras, French for “Fat Tuesday,” is the grand finale of the Carnival season. It’s the day we indulge in all the rich foods and wild festivities we might give up for the 40 days of Lent. Historically, the celebration has deep roots in medieval Europe, eventually making its way to French colonies in the Gulf South during the late 17th century.
Today, people celebrate it as a way to express gratitude to the community and as a defining feature of the city, while also serving as a means to relieve stress.
When Is Mardi Gras 2026
The specific date of Mardi Gras varies each year because it is tied to Easter.
- Mardi Gras 2026 falls on Tuesday, February 17.
- In New Orleans and Mobile, the official Carnival season begins on Twelfth Night (January 6). Most travelers plan their trips for the “Main Event” weekend, which in 2026 will run from Friday, February 13, through Tuesday, February 17.
Since Mardi Gras 2026 coincides with Presidents’ Day weekend, expect even larger crowds than usual. It is best to book your trip in advance.
Top Cities Celebrating Mardi Gras
In the United States, numerous cities celebrate Mardi Gras. Some of these locations showcase the most traditional Mardi Gras culture, while others boast a long-standing history. Here is a list of the best cities to celebrate Mardi Gras.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Mardi Gras in New Orleans is one of America’s most iconic carnival celebrations and the city’s most significant annual cultural event. In New Orleans, this celebration typically builds momentum starting in January and culminates on Mardi Gras day. If you want to experience the liveliest Mardi Gras, Louisiana is the top destination.
Parade Schedule
New Orleans’ Mardi Gras parades feature dozens of krewes; each Krewe has its own theme, float design, and traditions. But the most anticipated events occur during the final five days:
- Thursday, Feb 12: Muses(6:00 PM), famous for their hand-decorated shoes.
- Friday, Feb 13: Krewe d’Etat and Morpheus(6:30 PM).
- Saturday, Feb. 14: Endymion (4:00 PM), a “Super Krewe” that parades through Mid-City.
- Sunday, Feb 15: Bacchus(5:15 PM), known for celebrity grand marshals and massive floats.
- Monday, Feb 16 (Lundi Gras): Proteus(5:15 PM) and Orpheus(6:00 PM).
- Tuesday, Feb 17 (Fat Tuesday): Zulu (8:00 AM) and Rex (10:00 AM).
Route: Most major parades follow the Uptown Route, starting at Napoleon Avenue and St. Charles Avenue, then heading toward Canal Street. Note that parades do not go through the narrow streets of the French Quarter!
Things to Do
Catch a Zulu Coconut: These hand-painted treasures are the most coveted “throws” in New Orleans.
Catch Beads: This is one of the must-do activities at Mardi Gras, standing by the roadside, waving your hands, and shouting. Besides colorful beads, you might also catch custom-made doubloons, toys, and handmade jewelry.
Visit Mardi Gras World: See where the giant floats are built year-round.
Walk the French Quarter on Fat Tuesday: Witness the incredible costumes in the morning hours.
Enjoy Live Music: New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and during Mardi Gras, music is everywhere, from street brass bands to live bands in the parades.
Where to Stay
When traveling to New Orleans for mardi gras, location is everything. If you want to be in the middle of the action, stay in the French Quarter or the Central Business District (CBD). For a slightly more local feel, look for hotels along the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line in the Lower Garden District.
Food Recommendations
King Cake: A must-try treat during Mardi Gras celebrations. Hidden inside the cake is a small figurine, and whoever finds it must host the next gathering. You can buy a slice at Dong Phuong or Manny Randazzo’s.
Galatoire’s: For a classic, long Friday lunch on Bourbon Street.
Central Grocery: Grab a Muffuletta to take to the parade route.
Mobile, Alabama
If you’re seeking a Mardi Gras steeped in history, Mobile is an excellent choice. As the earliest city in the United States to host Mardi Gras celebrations, dating back to 1703, parades take place nearly every day starting in late January, culminating on Mardi Gras itself.
Parade Schedule
Mobile’s Mardi Gras parades are organized by “mystic societies.” For 2026, the schedule includes:
- Friday, Feb 13: Crewe of Columbus (6:30 PM).
- Saturday, Feb 14: Floral Parade (12:00 PM) and Mystics of Time (5:45 PM).
- Sunday, Feb 15 (Joe Cain Day): King Elexis I Motorcade (2:00 PM) and Joe Cain Procession (2:30 PM).
- Monday, Feb 16 (Lundi Gras): King Felix III Parade (11:30 AM) and Infant Mystics (6:30 PM).
- Tuesday, Feb 17 (Fat Tuesday): Order of Athena (10:30 AM), Comic Cowboys (1:30 PM), and Order of Myths (6:00 PM).
Route: Most parades go through downtown Mobile, beginning on Government Street and winding through the historic business district.
Things to Do
Watch a Daytime Parade: Mobile Mardi Gras parades mostly start during the day, making them perfect for families.
Visit the Mobile Carnival Museum: For a deeper dive into Mardi Gras, this museum showcases its history along with designs of various masks and costumes.
Head to USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park: Beyond Mardi Gras celebrations, Mobile also features the historically significant WWII battleship USS Alabama, which you can tour onboard.
Where to Stay
For those wishing to see more Mardi Gras parades, the Theatre District is an ideal place to stay. To enjoy views of the bay, consider staying in the Mobile Bay area.
Food Recommendations
MoonPie: A local specialty tossed from parade floats. A round sandwich cookie coated in chocolate or sugar glaze, typically filled with marshmallow.
Fresh Seafood: Be sure to try local oysters, crab, and shrimp. Wintzell’s Oyster House is a popular local seafood restaurant.
Southern Cuisine: This includes Gumbo, Jambalaya, and Fried Green Tomatoes. Head to The Noble South for innovative takes on these traditional Southern dishes.
Galveston, Texas
Galveston is a coastal celebration that takes the party to the beach. Galveston’s Mardi Gras also has a long history, dating back to the late 19th century. It’s known for its unique “Umbrella Brigade” and “Golf Cart Parades,” giving it a quirky, island-style flair that feels distinctively Texan.
Parade Schedule
Galveston stretches its party across two weeks.
- Friday, Feb 13: Danny Weber Memorial Fire Truck Parade (6:30 PM) and Krewe Babalu All Krewe Parade (7:30 PM).
- Saturday, Feb 14: Krewe d’Esprit Rosaire (11:00 AM) and the Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade (6:30 PM).
- Sunday, Feb 15: Shriners Children’s Texas & Sunshine Kids Parade (12:00 PM) and Krewe of Barkus & Meoux (1:30 PM).
- Tuesday, Feb 17: Mystic Krewe of Aquarius (6:30 PM).
Route: Events center around the Historic Strand District (which requires mardi gras 2026 tickets for entry) and along Seawall Boulevard.
Things to Do
Catch Candy: Galveston’s parade floats toss not only beads and souvenirs but also candy, so enjoy the sweet treats.
Experience Seaside Charm: Galveston boasts beautiful ocean views, with Galveston Beach and Seawall Boulevard both offering excellent spots for a stroll.
Explore the Strand Historic District: Here you’ll find numerous 19th-century buildings steeped in Southern charm. Temporary performances and live bands will also entertain visitors during the parade.
Where to Stay
The Strand Historic District is an excellent choice for first-time visitors, as it’s close to the parade route, surrounded by numerous restaurants, and offers stunning waterfront views. For those seeking more affordable accommodations, the East End stands out as a quieter alternative.
Food Recommendations
Texas-Style Barbecue: Try the barbecue ribs, steak, and cornbread. Experience local flavors at Smokin’ Z’s BBQ & Kraft Kitchen.
Fresh Seafood: Galveston’s coastal location makes seafood a signature dish of the city, especially oysters, shrimp, crab, and locally caught fish. Gaido’s is a longstanding local seafood restaurant.
St. Louis, Missouri
If you are in the Midwest, the Soulard neighborhood in St. Louis hosts one of the largest Mardi Gras events in the country. St. Louis boasts massive crowds, often second only to New Orleans, and hosts a variety of community street parties and pet parades.
Parade Schedule
The parade in St. Louis, though smaller in scale, featured an adorable pet parade:
- Sunday, Feb 8: Purina Pet Parade (1:00 PM) and the Wiener Dog Derby (1:45 PM).
- Friday, Feb 13: Mayor’s Mardi Gras Ball (7:00 PM).
- Saturday, Feb 14: Bud Light Grand Parade (11:00 AM).
Route: The Grand Parade begins near Busch Stadium and travels south into the Soulard neighborhood, ending at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery.
Things to Do
Visit Soulard Market: Grab a Bloody Mary and a ticket to sample Cajun food from local vendors.
Head to Soulard Historic District: Explore 19th-century red-brick houses and a bar street lined with boutique shops and artisan stalls.
Missouri Botanical Garden: February marks the onset of spring, with blooming flowers and themed events, making it an ideal time to view the cherry blossoms.
Where to Stay
The Soulard Historic District is the heart of the parade, featuring a bar district and a concentration of eateries. Next is the downtown area, offering convenient transportation and proximity to the iconic Gateway Arch.
Food Recommendations
St. Louis Barbecue: The city’s most iconic dish is barbecue ribs, with Pappy’s Smokehouse being the ideal choice.
Provel Cheese Pizza: Its signature feature is the blended cheese of Cheddar, Swiss, and Provolone, with Imo’s Pizza being the most popular locally.
Italian Cuisine: The Hill is the neighborhood known for Italian immigrant cuisine. Here you’ll find authentic Italian dishes like pasta, meatballs, and Toasted Ravioli.
Tips for Attending Mardi Gras
What to Wear
- Wear the Theme Colors: The colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green, and gold, representing justice, faith, and power, respectively.
- Accessories: Masks are essential for traditional Mardi Gras celebrations, followed by beaded jewelry and feathered accessories.
- Stay Warm: Southern February weather is unpredictable. Temperatures can reach 75°F in the sun and drop to 40°F after sunset. Bring a jacket to stay warm during evening parades.
- Other: You can also choose to wear a wig and lots of sequins.
Safety Rules
- Caution: Do not pick up marbles on the street. Wait until they stop rolling. Moving floats are dangerous.
- Stay with your group: Cell service can be spotty when 100,000 people are in one spot.
- Hydrate: For every “Hurricane” or beer, drink a bottle of water.
- Stay Sober: While the Mardi Gras atmosphere is lively, drink responsibly and avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
- Respect the police: They are there to keep things moving. Follow their instructions regarding barricades.
Transportation
Forget about driving. In New Orleans, the streets are closed for blocks around the routes. Use the GoMobile app for streetcar and bus info, or prepare to walk. In Galveston and Mobile, arrive early to secure a parking spot in a garage and then stay put.
FAQ
How long is Mardi Gras in New Orleans?
The Carnival season officially lasts about six weeks, starting January 6. However, the heavy parading period is the final 12 days leading up to Fat Tuesday.
Is it okay for Christians to celebrate Mardi Gras?
Absolutely. Mardi Gras has its origins in the Christian calendar as a way to use up fatty foods before the fasting period of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday.
What are the rules of Mardi Gras?
Don’t fight over beads because there are millions of them, don’t jump over barricades, and always say “Throw me something, Mister!” to the riders on the floats.
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