How to Prepare for Mardi Gras: Your Ultimate Guide
If you're traveling to New Orleans, planning ahead is essential. Hotels and accommodations book up quickly, and flights can get expensive the closer you get to Mardi Gras. Try to book at least a few months in advance to secure the best deals. If you want to stay close to the action, look for hotels in the French Quarter, Garden District, or near the parade routes on St. Charles Avenue.
Mardi Gras is all about fun, festive attire. Here's what you should consider packing:
Costumes & Masks: Dressing up is a big part of the celebration. Think bold, colorful outfits, feathered masks, and glittery accessories.
Comfortable Shoes: You'll be walking a lot, so opt for comfortable sneakers or boots.
Layered Clothing: February weather in New Orleans can be unpredictable. Bring layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures.
Rain Gear: A light rain poncho or jacket is a good idea in case of sudden showers.
Mardi Gras isn't just one parade—it's a whole season of festivities! The major parades roll through New Orleans in the two weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday. Some of the most famous parades include:
Krewe of Endymion (Saturday before Mardi Gras)
Krewe of Bacchus (Sunday before Mardi Gras)
Zulu & Rex (Fat Tuesday)
Check parade schedules online and plan where you want to watch from. Arriving early to claim a good spot is key!
Before you hit the parades, make sure you have these must-have items:
A Sturdy Bag or Backpack: Great for carrying snacks, water, and all the beads you'll catch.
Portable Charger: Your phone battery will drain fast with all the photos and videos you'll be taking.
Cash: Many street vendors and bars are cash-only during the festivities.
Hand Sanitizer & Wipes: You'll be touching a lot of things, so it's good to stay clean.
Mardi Gras has some traditions you should be aware of:
'Throw Me Something, Mister!' To catch beads and goodies from the parade floats, yell this classic phrase and wave your arms.
Respect the Krewes: The people on floats (called krewe members) spend all year preparing for Mardi Gras, so be respectful and grateful for their generosity.
No Bead Throwing at Riders: Catch them, but don't throw them back!
Watch Out for the Neutral Ground: This is the grassy median of streets like St. Charles Avenue, and it's often packed with parade-goers. Be mindful of kids and families around you.
No Mardi Gras experience is complete without indulging in delicious local food. Be sure to try:
King Cake: A sweet, cinnamon-filled pastry with colorful icing. Whoever finds the baby inside has to buy the next cake!
Beignets: These powdered sugar-covered pastries from Café du Monde are a must.
Po'boys & Gumbo: Classic Louisiana dishes that are perfect for fueling your festivities.
Hurricanes & Hand Grenades: Iconic Mardi Gras cocktails, but pace yourself—these are strong!
With all the excitement, it's easy to get carried away, but safety should always come first. Here are a few tips:
Stick with a group and have a meeting spot in case you get separated.
Drink responsibly and stay hydrated.
Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Use ride-share services or designated drivers if you're drinking.
Mardi Gras is about joy, celebration, and community. Take in the sights, dance to the music, catch as many beads as you can, and most importantly—have fun! Whether it's your first Mardi Gras or your tenth, it's a celebration you'll never forget.
Laissez les bons temps rouler—let the good times roll!
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