Looking to pair an all-inclusive Caribbean cruise with a stay in New Orleans over Mardi Gras? Find out all you need to know about how to make the most of your time in New Orleans and taking part in the world’s biggest free party.
When is Mardi Gras in 2026?
If you’re planning even further ahead, Mardi Gras Day in 2026 falls on the 17th of February 2026. If you’re looking to plan ahead our 2026 All-Inclusive Cruise and Mardi Gras in New Orleans package is now on sale. Click here to find out more.
When is Mardi Gras in 2027?
If you’re planning even further ahead, Mardi Gras Day in 2027 falls on the 9th of February 2026. If you’re looking to plan ahead our 2027 All-Inclusive Cruise and Mardi Gras in New Orleans package is now on sale. Click here to find out more.
Is Mardi Gras just one day?
Certainly not, the official start of the Mardi Gras carnival season is twelfth night, the 6th of January, which around the world is recognised as the final day of Christmas. So just as Christmas comes to an end, carnival season begins.
What is a Mardi Gras parade?
Mardi Gras parades have their roots in Mardi Gras krewes. Krewes, or groups of revellers, band together to put on a parade or Mardi Gras ball during the Carnival season. Each parade is named for a krewe and fills its floats with members. The King and Queen of each krewe lead the parade, followed by multiple floats. Parades can also include marching bands, dancing groups, horses and riders, clowns, motorcycle units and more. It’s not uncommon for there to be up to 3,000 participants in a parade.
What makes a Mardi Gras parade so special?
Mardi Gras parades are not just about the beads, although you’re sure to come home with a bag full of them! Throws turn New Orleans parades into crowd participation events. The most popular items are those that bear the krewe’s insignia, such as doubloons (metal coins), cups and medallion emblem necklaces. Many items also illustrate the parade’s theme, making them collectables. Parades take place both during the day and at night, make sure you have the chance to watch both types of parades to get the full Mardi Gras experience.
Which Mardi Gras parades can I see during my New Orleans post-cruise stay?
You’ll disembark the cruise on Sunday just before Mardi Gras. If you’re looking to see some Mardi Gras parades during your New Orleans stay then you’ll be spoilt for choice. Sunday sees parades throughout the day followed by the hugely popular Krewe of Bacchus who roll through uptown New Orleans in the evening. Lundi Gras sees two amazing krewes parade in the evening with Proteus followed by Orpheus. Mardi Gras itself sees two of the biggest and most famous krewes rolling through from early in the morning. The parades of the krewes of Zulu and Rex are not to be missed!
Mardi Gras Parade Schedule 2026
Sunday 15th Feb
Krewe of Okeanos 11:00am
Krewe of Mid-City follows
Krewe of Thoth 12:00pm
Krewe of Bacchus 5:15pm
Monday 16th Feb – Lundi Gras
Krewe of Proteus 5:15pm
Krewe of Orpheus 6:00pm
Tuesday 17th Feb – Mardi Gras
Krewe of Zulu 8:00am
Krewe of Rex 10:30am
Krewe of Elks Orleans follows
Krewe of Crescent City follows
What other Mardi Gras traditions should I take part in?
The day before Mardi Gras itself, Lundi Gras, is a day where parades only happen in the evening. Whilst many visitors take this opportunity to embark on tours around the city or out to the swamps and plantations just outside New Orleans, those looking to soak up the carnival atmosphere will have plenty to do throughout the day. Woldenberg Park, on the banks of the Mississippi River hosts live music on several stages along the riverfront as well as numerous food and drink stalls throughout the day. As the sun goes down get ready for the arrival of Rex, the King of Carnival and Monarch of Merriment. Rex is joined on stage by the King of the Zulu as well as the Mayor of New Orleans as he is handed over the keys of the city and granted temporary rule, in order to take over symbolic control of the city for this one special day. The ceremony concludes with a spectacular fireworks display on the Mississippi River.
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 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 off 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.
What should I wear during Mardi Gras?
You will be doing a lot of walking and standing during Mardi Gras, so comfortable shoes are a must. Go crazy with the rest of your outfit! Revellers who dress in costume often catch more. While some people stick with purple, green and gold clothes, others wear full costumes, paint their faces and more. If fancy dress is your cup of tea then head to the corner of Bourbon and St Ann streets on Mardi Gras (Tuesday) where you’ll find hundreds of other people dressed up and competing for the best dressed award.
