New Orleans' most iconic celebration runs from January 6 through February 17, 2026, offering weeks of parades, costumes, music and traditions that stretch back centuries. Carnival season begins on Twelfth Night and culminates on Fat Tuesday, transforming the entire city into one massive celebration.
When to Visit
While the entire season offers excitement, the biggest celebrations happen during the final week before Mardi Gras Day, with marathon parades and super-krewes rolling every night. Earlier in the season, various parades take place in neighborhoods across the city on weekends. Visitors should book flights and hotels as soon as possible, as accommodations fill up quickly.
Mardi Gras in New Orleans (Photo Credit: New Orleans & Company/Paul Broussard)
Where to Experience the Festivities
The main parade route runs the length of Saint Charles Avenue, beginning at Napoleon and Tchoupitoulas before turning down St. Charles toward downtown and making a final turn on Canal Street. Beyond the main parades, celebrations happen throughout the French Quarter, Marigny, Bywater, Mid-City and other neighborhoods citywide.
Mardi Gras offers unique neighborhood events like Krewe du Vieux's satirical floats, the North Side Skull and Bones Gang roaming Tremé at dawn, 'tit Rex's tiny shoebox floats and the Mystic Krewe of Barkus parade for dogs.
Mardi Gras World (Photo Credit: New Orleans & Company)
Choosing Accommodations
Where to stay depends on interests and priorities. For families, the Uptown neighborhood between Napoleon Avenue and Jackson Avenue offers the best experience. Hotels along St. Charles Avenue or Canal Street provide prime locations but fill up fast. The French Quarter stays close to the action but gets crowded and caters more to adults. The Central Business District and Warehouse District provide convenient access to both parades and nightlife.
Getting Around
Walking is the best way to navigate during Mardi Gras. Biking is another excellent option using rentals or Blue Bikes. Rideshares work well but expect surge pricing. Staying close to the route helps with restroom access, though churches and schools along the routes typically offer facilities for a small fee.
Mardi Gras, New Orleans (Photo Credit: New Orleans & Company)
What to Know
Mardi Gras parades are completely free—no tickets required for street viewing. The celebration is absolutely family-friendly, with locals growing up attending the festivities. It's also incredibly welcoming to the LGBTQ community, with dedicated krewes, balls and the famous Bourbon Street Awards drag queen contest on Mardi Gras Day.
For a complete guide to all things Mardi Gras, including detailed parade schedules and route maps, visit NewOrleans.com.
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