Updated April 2024
There is nowhere on earth quite like Mardi Gras in New Orleans, where the city comes alive with iconic parades, legendary music and one of the world’s greatest free celebrations. If you are looking to combine an all-inclusive Caribbean cruise with an unforgettable stay in the Big Easy during the world’s greatest free festival, you are in exactly the right place.
Often described as “The Greatest Free Show on Earth,” Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a spectacular celebration of culture, music and colour, where visitors are encouraged to don purple, green and gold and immerse themselves in the magic of Carnival.
At Paramount Cruises, we are proud to be Mardi Gras specialists. Year after year, we help our guests experience this extraordinary celebration, combining iconic parades, legendary music, world-class cuisine and a seamless cruise & stay itinerary.
Whether you are planning for Mardi Gras 2026, Mardi Gras 2027, or even the rare Leap Day Mardi Gras in 2028, this guide covers everything you need to know.
When Is Mardi Gras in New Orleans?
Mardi Gras is not just one day; it is an entire Carnival season that begins on Twelfth Night (6 January) and builds towards Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday.
Key Mardi Gras Dates
• Mardi Gras 2026: Tuesday, 17 February 2026
• Mardi Gras 2027: Tuesday, 9 February 2027
• Mardi Gras 2028: Tuesday, 29 February 2028 (Leap Day Special)
Our 2026, 2027 and 2028 All-Inclusive Mardi Gras Cruise & Stay packages are now on sale.
Mardi Gras in 2026
With Mardi Gras just around the corner, Mardi Gras Day in 2026 falls on Tuesday, 17 February 2026. Our 2026 All-Inclusive Cruise & Mardi Gras in New Orleans package is now on sale.
Mardi Gras in 2027
If you’re planning a little further ahead, Mardi Gras Day in 2027 takes place on Tuesday, 9 February 2027. Our 2027 All-Inclusive Cruise & Mardi Gras in New Orleans package is now available.
Mardi Gras in 2028
Looking further ahead, Mardi Gras Day in 2028 falls on Tuesday, 29 February 2028, a rare and highly sought-after Leap Day Mardi Gras. Our 2028 All-Inclusive Cruise & Mardi Gras in New Orleans package is now on sale.
Is Mardi Gras just one day?
Absolutely not. While Fat Tuesday is the grand finale, the days leading up to it are packed with parades, street parties and traditions.
Sunday features major daytime parades followed by a spectacular Sunday night Super Krewe. Monday, known as Lundi Gras, brings evening parades and the famous Rex arrival ceremony. Mardi Gras Day itself begins early with iconic morning parades and celebrations across the city.
What is a Mardi Gras parade?
Mardi Gras parades are organised by Krewes, social organisations that design elaborate floats, choose parade themes and host masked balls.
Each parade is named after its Krewe and features dozens of floats filled with costumed riders. The King and Queen lead the procession, followed by marching bands, dancers, horses, motorcycle units and often up to 3,000 participants.
What Makes the Parades So Special?
Mardi Gras is not a spectator sport; it is fully interactive. Riders shower the crowds with “throws” such as beads, cups, doubloons and medallion necklaces, many of which are uniquely designed to reflect each Krewe’s theme, turning every parade into a true crowd-participation event.
Daytime and evening parades each offer a completely different atmosphere, so experiencing both is highly recommended to fully appreciate the scale, colour and energy of Carnival.
Adding to the magic are the Mardi Gras Indians, also known as Black Masking Indians, one of the most visually striking and culturally significant traditions of the season. These groups create extraordinary hand-sewn suits of beads and feathers, some weighing over 150 pounds, honouring the Native Americans who helped enslaved Africans escape to freedom. Encountering Mardi Gras Indians is a uniquely New Orleans experience and one of the most authentic moments of Mardi Gras
Fun Fact: A UNESCO-Recognised Music City
In 2025, New Orleans was officially recognised by UNESCO as a Creative City for Music, celebrating its unparalleled musical heritage and vibrant contemporary scene.
Must-See Parades During Your Stay
Our cruise itineraries are perfectly timed so you disembark just before the biggest days of Carnival.
You will see some of the most famous and spectacular parades, including Bacchus on Sunday night, known for celebrity monarchs and massive floats. Lundi Gras features the elegant Proteus, followed by the modern spectacle of Orpheus. Mardi Gras Day itself showcases Zulu, famous for hand-painted coconut throws, and Rex, the legendary King of Carnival.
Mardi Gras Parade Schedule – 2026
Sunday, 15 February 2026
Krewe of Okeanos – 11:00am
Krewe of Mid-City – follows
Krewe of Thoth – 12:00 pm
Krewe of Bacchus – 5:15 pm
Monday, 16 February 2026 (Lundi Gras)
Krewe of Proteus – 5:15 pm
Krewe of Orpheus – 6:00 pm
Tuesday, 17 February 2026 (Mardi Gras Day)
Krewe of Zulu – 8:00 am
Krewe of Rex – 10:30 am
Krewe of Elks Orleans – follows
Krewe of Crescent City – follows
Lundi Gras: A Tradition Not to Miss
Lundi Gras, the day before Mardi Gras itself, is a highlight in its own right. While parades only take place in the evening, the city buzzes with carnival energy throughout the day. Many visitors choose to explore New Orleans or venture out to nearby swamps and plantations, but those looking to stay close to the action will find plenty happening along the riverfront.
Woldenberg Park, on the banks of the Mississippi River, hosts live music across several stages, alongside food and drink stalls and a lively festival atmosphere. As the sun sets, anticipation builds for one of Mardi Gras’ most symbolic moments: the arrival of Rex, the King of Carnival and Monarch of Merriment, who makes a grand entrance by riverboat.
Joined by the King of Zulu and the Mayor of New Orleans, Rex is ceremonially handed the keys to the city, granting him symbolic control for this one special day. The evening celebrations conclude with a spectacular fireworks display over the Mississippi River, making Lundi Gras an unforgettable part of any Mardi Gras experience.
Where are the hotels located for the Mardi Gras stay?
All the hotels we use for your Mardi Gras stay are located in the heart of New Orleans’s Warehouse District. You’ll be just a couple of blocks away from St Charles Ave, where you’ll be able to see every parade go past.
The hotels are also within walking distance to the cruise terminal on Julia Street, although if you have a bit of luggage, you can jump in a taxi to and from the port. You’ll also be within walking distance of the French Quarter and the infamous Bourbon Street.
Where should I watch the Mardi Gras parades from?
Check online for the specific route of each parade and join the locals curbside! Most parades will start in the Garden District and head down St Charles Avenue all the way to Canal Street. We’d recommend heading towards the Garden District and finding a spot along the street; however, you can also enjoy viewing from grandstand seats along St. Charles Avenue.
These are available for purchase through Mardi Gras Parade Tickets at www.mardigrasparadetickets.com and New Orleans Parade Tickets at www.neworleansparadetickets.com.
Top Tip: During busy parade days, access to facilities can be limited. Booking organised experiences or enjoying parade viewing near hotels, restaurants, or ticketed seating areas can make the day far more comfortable, especially during longer parade routes.
What Should You Wear During Carnival?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as you will be walking and standing for long periods. Beyond that, go all out. Dressing in purple, green and gold, or a full costume, helps you blend in and often results in catching more throws.
For the ultimate costume experience, head to the corner of Bourbon Street and St Ann Street on Mardi Gras Day, where hundreds of revellers compete for the most creative outfits.
Why Book Mardi Gras with Paramount Cruises?
We combine expert cruise knowledge with a genuine passion for the Deep South. Our team has personally travelled through Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans to hand-select hotels and experiences.
Your holiday is fully ABTA and ATOL protected, and we focus on quality and authenticity rather than cheap shortcuts. Our Cruise & Stay itineraries perfectly balance the energy of Mardi Gras with the relaxation of a Caribbean cruise.
Contact us today to secure your Mardi Gras cruise holiday
View All Mardi Gras Holidays Here
📞 020 7947 0270
📧info@paramountcruises.com
