Mardi Gras New Orleans Cruises
Looking to pair an all-inclusive Caribbean cruise with a stay in New Orleans over Mardi Gras? We've put together the very best bucket-list Mardi Gras in New Orleans cruise holidays for 2026 and 2027. Find out all you need to know about how to make the most of your time in New Orleans and take part in the world’s biggest free party. At Paramount Cruises, we're true Mardi Gras experts, and over the years, thousands of our customers have experienced this incredible carnival, so why not join them on one of our escorted packages?
Mardi Gras in New Orleans Holidays 2026 & 2027
Choose from one of our epic Mardi Gras in New Orleans cruise & stay holidays. Whether you're just looking to experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans, or have more time to spare and want to explore the incredible musical cities of Memphis and Nashville, we've got the perfect packages for you.
US Music Cities - A Deep South Adventure
Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans are three of our favourite destinations at Paramount Cruises, and we’re sure you’ll soon see why. From mouth-watering Southern cuisine and incredible live music to the warm hospitality that defines the Deep South, each city has its own irresistible charm. Join us on one of our Ultimate Music Cities or Mardi Gras packages and experience the magic of America’s most soulful destinations for yourself.
New Orleans
Welcome to the Big Easy, a city that moves to its own rhythm. New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz and a melting pot of music, flavour and celebration. Visit during Mardi Gras, the greatest free show on earth, when parades fill the streets with colour, costume and song. From the French Quarter to Frenchmen Street, discover the true heart of the Deep South and catch a few beads along the way.
Steamboat sailing along the Mississippi River in New Orleans
Memphis
Memphis, the home of the blues and birthplace of rock and roll, is a city that stirs the soul. Walk in the footsteps of Elvis at Graceland, hear live music on Beale Street, and soak up the city’s unique rhythm. Food lovers will find heaven in smoky barbecue joints serving slow-cooked ribs and pulled pork made with Southern love. Memphis is raw, real and unforgettable.
Paramount Cruises passenger taking a selfie outside of Elvis Presley's Graceland Mansion in Memphis
Nashville
For country music fans, Nashville is the ultimate pilgrimage. The city hums with live music pouring from every honky tonk along Broadway, where aspiring stars play to packed crowds late into the night. Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, visit the Grand Ole Opry, and experience true Southern hospitality in Music City, where every song tells a story.
Paramount Cruises passengers enjoying live music at the Roberts Western World honky tonk in Nashville
Mardi Gras in New Orleans - Frequently Asked Questions
Mardi Gras is one of the world’s most iconic celebrations, and there’s nowhere better to experience it than New Orleans. To help you make the most of this incredible event, we’ve answered some of the most common questions our guests ask, along with a few expert tips from the Paramount team.
Mardi Gras Day in 2026 falls on 17 February 2026. Our All-Inclusive Cruise and Mardi Gras in New Orleans package for 2026 has been incredibly popular, with limited spaces remaining. Book early to secure your place at this unforgettable celebration.
If you’re planning ahead, Mardi Gras Day in 2027 will take place on 9 February 2027. Our 2027 All-Inclusive Cruise onboard Norwegian Breakaway and Mardi Gras in New Orleans package is already on sale and filling fast.
Not at all. While Mardi Gras Day marks the height of the celebration, the Carnival season officially begins on Twelfth Night (6 January), which also marks the end of Christmas. From that point, weekend parades and events take place right up until Shrove Tuesday, with different krewes (social clubs) rolling through Uptown New Orleans each week.
Mardi Gras parades are the heart of the celebration. Each krewe designs its own themed floats, led by a King and Queen, and joined by marching bands, performers and dance groups. With some parades featuring over 3,000 participants, it’s a dazzling mix of creativity, community and pure joy.
It’s all about the throws, the beads, cups, coins and trinkets tossed from floats to the crowd. Each krewe creates its own themed designs, turning every parade into a giant street-party treasure hunt. Daytime parades offer vibrant colour, while the illuminated night processions deliver an atmosphere like no other.
Don’t miss Lundi Gras, the day before Mardi Gras itself. During the day, explore New Orleans or visit the nearby swamps and plantations, then head to Woldenberg Park on the Mississippi River for live music, food and festivities. As night falls, join the locals for the arrival of Rex, King of Carnival, and the symbolic handover of the city’s keys, a truly unforgettable moment capped with fireworks over the river.
We always recommend the Lower Garden District along St Charles Avenue. It’s spacious, relaxed and family-friendly, with plenty of room to enjoy the parades in comfort. You’ll find food stalls, local bars and an easy walk to many hotels. Grandstand seating is also available for certain parades if you prefer a guaranteed spot.
Comfort is key. You’ll be walking and standing for much of the day, so wear comfortable shoes you don’t mind getting dusty. Embrace the colour and fun, purple, green and gold are traditional, but costumes are always encouraged. The more festive your outfit, the better the experience (and the more beads you’ll catch).
Don’t miss king cake, a colourful pastry filled with cinnamon or cream cheese, available throughout Carnival season. You’ll also find classic New Orleans favourites like gumbo, po’ boys and beignets, perfect fuel for a day of parades and parties.
Yes. Many of the Uptown and Mid-City parades are perfect for families, with lively yet welcoming atmospheres. The Lower Garden District is a favourite spot for those seeking a safe and comfortable environment to enjoy the festivities.
Yes. The city is well prepared for large events, with strong police and security presence along parade routes. As with any busy festival, keep valuables secure, stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice to ensure a safe, enjoyable celebration.