Mardi Gras 2025 in New Orleans

Going to Mardi Gras in New Orleans is definitely a bucket list item! MARDI GRAS IN 2025 FALLS ON TUESDAY MARCH 4TH. This post is everything you need to know before you head to the Big Easy for Mardi Gras.

Your Ultimate Guide to Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Going to Mardi Gras in New Orleans is definitely a bucket-list item. There is nothing like it in the world! New Orleans is an incredible city to visit at any time of the year. Visiting during Mardi Gras is incredible, but it can be overwhelming, so here are some tips and trips to plan ahead, know what to expect, and prepare to get your party on!

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Section 1: History of Mardi Gras

A quick history lesson for the history nerds. (Skip to Section 3 if you want to get straight to the party) Mardi Gras, French for “Fat Tuesday,” stretches back to ancient Roman and pre-Christian celebrations heralding the arrival of spring. It was rooted in pagan festivals such as the Feast of Lupercalia, where participants donned disguises and engaged in merrymaking.

As Christianity spread, the Church strategically sought to integrate familiar festivities into Christian celebrations. The period leading up to Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and penance before Easter, became known as Shrovetide, a time of feasting and revelry before the solemnity of the Lenten season. The day before Lent begins, which is now known as Ash Wednesday, became a day of indulgence and celebration. This day is what we now refer to as Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday.”

Section 2: New Orleans and Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras found a new home in the Americas through French explorers in the 17th century. It gained firm footing in the French colony of Louisiana, particularly New Orleans. The French colony of Louisiana, with its Catholic influence, embraced and adapted the Mardi Gras traditions. The celebrations took on a uniquely American and distinctly New Orleanian character.

The first official Mardi Gras parade in the city occurred in 1837, and the Mistick Krewe of Comus organized the inaugural modern-style parade in 1857. Private social clubs, known as krewes, became central to organizing festivities, introducing elaborate parades with themed floats, masked riders, and unique throws. The Krewe of Rex added symbolic Mardi Gras colors in 1872 – purple for justice, green for faith, and gold for power.

Section 3: Information and Tips for Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Ok, that’s enough of that. Let’s get to the party!

Lawd have mercy, New Orleans is an amazing place. It has fantastic architecture and a rich history, and there is so much to see when you visit. But you know what? Going to New Orleans during Mardi Gras is not going to be the time to see all that! You go to Mardi Gras to party; you go to New Orleans any other time to sightsee (and also party—just not quite as intense).

So we will break it down – general caveats, locations, parades, hotels, & food.

General Caveats:

One thing to know about Mardi Gras in New Orleans – there will be people EVERYWHERE. When it is parade time, there will be people literally shoulder-to-shoulder. If you go to Bourbon Street, don’t be surprised if you move in a sea of people without your feet touching the ground. Seriously! It’s like crowd surfing without actually meaning to crowd surf. Don’t expect personal space, and make sure you pack your patience! Everyone is there to have a great time; there will be lots of drunk people, and it is a massive party, so just know that going in!

The parades are an ABSOLUTE BLAST and you must go! There are going to be a zillion things going on, and you can have a blast everywhere, but do plan to hit at least a few of the major parades. They are amazing to see and sooooo much fun to go to. Get ready to yell THROW ME SOMETHIN MISTER! If you are so inclined, feel free to flash what you got, you will be appreciated and rewarded. Never in your life will cheap beads have so much value.

New Orleans Lay of the Land:

When you are planning, know that Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans primarily take place along two main routes: the French Quarter and St. Charles Avenue.

1. French Quarter:

This is what you think of when you think of New Orleans. It has iconic architecture, historic streets, and will have music, food, and people everywhere. If you love to people watch, you have quite an adventure ahead of you.

Bourbon Street – party central. You will walk up and down the street, looking at folks up on the balconies and yelling for beads. Bars all up and down the street. Some bars are newcomers; others have been there forever, like the World Famous Cats Meow, Old Absinthe House, and Big Ass Beers. Just around the corner from Bourbon is the best piano bar known to man, Pat O’Brian’s. There are lots of walk-in daiquiri shops—convenient and tasty—but beware of the “rot gut” after!

Parades often wind through the narrow streets of the French Quarter, so this is where things can get a bit hairy in terms of the crowd situation.

2. St. Charles Avenue:

St. Charles Avenue, located in the Uptown neighborhood, is another key parade route.

The wide, tree-lined avenue features historic mansions and provides a more spacious setting for larger parades. This is a great location to find a spot and hang out to wait on a parade. Still lots of people, but not as super jam packed as the French Quarter.

Families often gather along St. Charles Avenue to catch throws and enjoy the parades, so you will see kids out here. (although we would recommend you go to Metairie for parades if you have kids.)

Mardi Gras Parades:

There will be lots of parades going on in and around the days of Mardi Gras, but these are the biggies. Try to get to at least one of these, they are so incredible to see and experience.

1. Krewe of Rex – TUESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2024
   • The Krewe of Rex, founded in 1872, is one of the oldest and most prestigious krewes. Known as the “King of Carnival,” Rex leads the festivities on Fat Tuesday and presents the city with its symbolic Key to the City.
2. Krewe of Zulu – TUESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2024
   • The Krewe of Zulu, famous for its vibrant and lively parade, has been part of Mardi Gras since 1909. They are known for tossing unique throws, including coconuts, to the cheering crowd.
3. Krewe of Endymion – SATURDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2024
   • Saturday is a day of amazing parades, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. The Krewe of Endymion is renowned for its spectacular night parade, featuring elaborate floats and a star-studded lineup of celebrity guests. It’s one of the largest and most visually stunning parades.
4. Krewe of Bacchus – SUNDAY FEBRUARY 11, 2024
   • The Krewe of Bacchus, founded in 1968, is known for its grandiose floats and celebrity monarchs. The parade rolls on the Sunday before Fat Tuesday and draws large crowds.
5. Krewe of Orpheus – MONDAY FEBRUARY 12, 2024 (Lundi Gras)
   • The Krewe of Orpheus, founded by Harry Connick Jr. and his father in 1993, is known for its innovative floats and the celebrity-led Lundi Gras (Fat Monday) parade.
6. Krewe of Muses – THURSDAY FEBRUARY 8, 2024
   • The Krewe of Muses, an all-female krewe, is celebrated for its creativity and humor. They roll through the streets of New Orleans on the Thursday before Fat Tuesday, captivating the audience with their themed throws.
7. Krewe of Proteus – MONDAY FEBRUARY 12, 2024 (Lundi Gras)
   • The Krewe of Proteus, established in 1882, is one of the oldest krewes and is recognized for its traditional and artistic approach to parading.
8. Krewe of Thoth – SUNDAY FEBRUARY 11, 2024
   • The Krewe of Thoth, founded in 1947, is known for its family-friendly day parade on the Sunday before Fat Tuesday. It features colorful floats and generous throws.
9. Krewe of Nyx – WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 7, 2024
   • The Krewe of Nyx, founded in 2012, has quickly gained popularity, particularly for its evening parade showcasing dazzling lights and creative themes.

Hotels in New Orleans:

• New Orleans offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets.
• In the French Quarter, historic hotels like the Hotel Monteleone, The Roosevelt New Orleans, and the Omni Royal Orleans provide a central location close to the action.
• Along St. Charles Avenue, you’ll find charming bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, and larger chains like the Pontchartrain Hotel.
• The Warehouse District and Central Business District also offer convenient lodging options, such as the Ace Hotel and the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery.

When planning a trip for Mardi Gras, consider how close or far your hotel is from the action. French Quarter will be packed, loud, and steps away from absolutely everything. St. Charles is still close to so many things, but just a little more removed to give you a breather.

Mardi Gras Outfits:

You can literally wear anything—or nothing at all—and you can get away with it at Mardi Gras. Want to be outrageous? This is your time to shine. Check out our post on Mardi Gras outfit ideas! Shop here to grab anything in the iconic Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold and you will fit right in. If you want to buy beads in advance, you can, but if you are going down to catch the parades, stroll the streets, and yell at the people on the balconies of Bourbon, you will get PLENTY of beads by the time you leave.

Be as outrageous as you want to be, but keep it comfortable. You will be on your feet all day between walking, standing, and reveling. Grab you a pair of tennis shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Please, for the love of all that is holy, please don’t wear sandals. Absolutely no flip flops!! Don’t you dare have bare feet one single second in New Orleans! Those streets are NASTY.

The Food of New Orleans:

New Orleans is home to some of the best food in the world! Here are just a few of the best restaurants you can find in the French Quarter:

1. Café du Monde – Of all the food joints in NOLA, this one is a must for us every time we are there. Known for its world-famous beignets and chicory coffee, Café du Monde is a New Orleans institution. Established in 1862, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the French Quarter. The food, the vibe, the location. Amazing.

2. Antoine’s – Antoine’s is one of the oldest family-run restaurants in the United States, serving classic Creole cuisine since 1840. It’s famous for its historic dining rooms and traditional dishes.

3. Galatoire’s – A culinary landmark since 1905, Galatoire’s is renowned for its elegant Creole cuisine. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

4. Brennan’s – Brennan’s, established in 1946, is a French Quarter classic known for its breakfast and brunch offerings. The restaurant is celebrated for its elegant dining rooms and traditional Creole cuisine. We also think they have a fantastic steak!

5. Arnaud’s – Arnaud’s, founded in 1918, is another French Quarter gem serving classic Creole cuisine. The restaurant is known for its Mardi Gras Museum and the iconic French 75 Bar.

6. K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen – Founded by Chef Paul Prudhomme, K-Paul’s has been a French Quarter favorite since 1979. It’s renowned for its Cajun and Creole dishes, including the famous blackened redfish.

7. GW Fins – GW Fins, located just outside the traditional boundaries of the French Quarter, is a seafood-centric restaurant known for its fresh and innovative dishes. It has gained acclaim for its daily changing menu.

8. Mother’s – Mother’s is just outside the French Quarter in the central business district (still within walking distance). It is known for its comfort food, but for us, Mother’s = BREAKFAST. It is so good. It has been serving locals and visitors since 1938 and has become a classic in the New Orleans culinary scene.

9. Muriel’s Jackson Square – Nestled in Jackson Square, Muriel’s is known for its Creole and French-inspired cuisine. The restaurant has a charming setting and offers balcony dining with views of the historic square.

10. Tableau: – Located on Jackson Square, Tableau is known for its modern Creole dishes and picturesque views of St. Louis Cathedral. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

These are just a few examples of some of the most well-known restaurants in and around the French Quarter. In terms of food, there are many many options available, especially around Mardi Gras time. Crawfish are in season during Mardi Gras! Also, don’t forget about pralines! Kingcakes! Try some gator – it is actually really good! There are so many amazing culinary delights.

Safety:

Ok, so obviously this is a super fun adventure that also needs a wee bit of common sense. Here are the main things:

• Stay with your people.
• Don’t carry a purse. If you can have an outfit with a little zipped pocket tucked away somewhere, that is ideal. Take your ID, a card, and some cash. That’s it.
• STAY WITH YOUR PEOPLE. Watch out for each other.
• Stay on the main roads. Do not go off on random side streets in New Orleans. Stay on the populated streets.
• HYDRATE. Get water for your room. Hydrate hydrate hydrate. Get some food for your room too.

Laissez Les Bons Temp Rouler!

Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler! You will hear and see this all over – it means “Let the Good Times Roll” in French. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is an amazingly fun and incredible once in a lifetime type of trip and will be something you remember forever. Plan it out, make your arrangements, and go have a blast!

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