Mardi Gras in New Orleans: Parades, Costumes, and Fun

Every year, the streets of New Orleans explode into a vibrant spectacle of color, sound, and celebration during Mardi Gras. Known as one of the most iconic and world famous festivals in the United States, Mardi Gras draws millions of people to visit New Orleans for a whirlwind of parades, pageantry, and pure joy.

Whether you’re tossing beads from a float, dancing to brass bands, or just taking it all in with a King Cake in hand, this NOLA tradition is unlike any other cultural experience in America. It’s more than just a party—it’s a deep-rooted blend of history, community, and art that reflects the soul of the city.

Before diving into the heart of the festivities, it’s worth taking a moment to plan your logistics. After all, navigating the lively French Quarter, catching multiple Mardi Gras parades, and exploring the charming Garden District requires some strategy. That’s where Nannybag bag drop New Orleans comes in. This smart luggage storage solution helps you enjoy your time in the city without being weighed down.

With convenient locations around the city that operate 24 hours a day and offer free cancellation, Nannybag provides flexible, secure, and affordable luggage storage (just $4.50 per bag, regardless of size). Whether you just checked out of your Airbnb or arrived early for a late hotel check-in, you can stash your bags, freeing yourself to have fun in New Orleans.

It’s especially perfect if you want to go straight from the airport to the Bourbon Street action or stroll along the Mississippi River. Look for a bag drop New Orleans option through Nannybag and enjoy your day stress-free.

The History and Origins of Mardi Gras

The roots of Mardi Gras run deep, going all the way back to ancient European feast days and Catholic traditions. The term itself means “Fat Tuesday” in French, referencing the last day of feasting before the solemn season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. In Orleans, Louisiana, this celebration found a new identity, merging Old World customs with local culture in ways that make it distinctly New Orleans.

The first documented celebration of Mardi Gras in Louisiana took place in the late 17th century, but the real show began in the 19th centuries, when secret societies known as krewes began organizing elaborate balls and Mardi Gras parades.

Over time, these krewes—like the humorous and often risqué Krewe du Vieux—added floats, throws, and satirical themes to the mix, turning the festival into a dazzling, city-wide event. Even through the challenges of World War II, the spirit of Mardi Gras endured, coming back stronger than ever in the 20th century as a powerful expression of community and resilience.

Mardi Gras Season: When the Magic Happens

Contrary to popular belief, Mardi Gras isn’t just a single day—it’s an entire mardi gras season that kicks off on Twelfth Night, also known as Epiphany, on January 6th. From then until Mardi Gras Day, the city comes alive with celebrations. While Fat Tuesday is the grand finale, you’ll find events happening nearly every week leading up to it.

As the season ramps up, so do the tourist attractions. Beads start flying, glitter fills the air, and streets turn into spontaneous dance floors. If you want to experience the more traditional and local side of things, the early parades in the Garden District and St. Charles Avenue are a great place to start. These family-friendly areas provide a more laid-back vibe compared to the raucous energy of the French Quarter.

Costumes, Krewes, and Culture

One of the most iconic aspects of Mardi Gras is the sheer spectacle of it all. Mardi Gras costumes are more than just flashy attire—they’re a key part of the celebration’s storytelling tradition. Expect to see revelers dressed as kings, jesters, mystical creatures, and pop culture references, all woven together in a vibrant visual symphony.

Costuming is not limited to parade participants. Everyone gets in on the fun, especially in the French Quarter, where creativity knows no bounds. Many parade-goers join Saint Anne’s walking parade, an annual tradition where elaborately costumed locals and visitors walk through the city with music, feathers, sequins, and masks—celebrating life and honoring loved ones who’ve passed.

Cultural expression also plays a huge role in the celebration. Mardi Gras has long been influenced by African American and Native American traditions. The Mardi Gras Indians, for instance, are known for their intricate, hand-sewn suits made of beads, feathers, and rhinestones—each one a labor of love and resistance that connects the past to the present.

Parades and Must-See Highlights

No travel guide to Mardi Gras would be complete without mapping out the can’t-miss parades. While there are dozens of krewes parading during the season, some stand out as must-sees:

Krewe of Zulu: Famous for its unique painted coconuts and deep African American roots. 

Krewe of Rex: One of the oldest and most prestigious krewes, dating back to the 19th centuries, known for its regal floats and marching bands. 

Krewe du Vieux: Raucous, raunchy, and brilliantly satirical—this krewe kicks off the season with a parade through the French Quarter.

Make sure to plan ahead—parades follow specific parade routes, and the city can get very crowded. If you want a prime viewing spot along St. Charles Avenue, get there early, bring snacks, and prepare to enjoy your day. Don’t forget your bead-catching reflexes!

Beyond the Beads: Things to Do During Mardi Gras

Though the parades and costumes are the main draw, there’s so much more to Mardi Gras than what you’ll see on the floats. Start with Mardi Gras World, a behind-the-scenes studio where many of the parade floats are made. It’s a perfect family-friendly stop where you’ll learn about float-building and the art behind the magic.

Food is another essential part of the experience. From King Cake—a colorful, cinnamon-laced pastry with a hidden baby figurine inside—to savory gumbo and po’boys, New Orleans’ culinary scene shines during this time. Be sure to sample local cuisine and chase it down with a drink from one of the many bars along Bourbon Street.

Of course, live music is everywhere. Street corners echo with the soulful sounds of jazz, funk, and blues. Whether it’s an impromptu brass band performance or a big-name act in a venue, music is the heartbeat of Mardi Gras.

Celebrating Responsibly and Respectfully

While it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, it’s important to celebrate responsibly. Keep in mind that many residents live and work in the city year-round, so being respectful—especially in the French Quarter and Garden District—goes a long way. Don’t litter, respect parade boundaries, and remember that not all costumes are appropriate—cultural sensitivity matters.

Also, remember that Mardi Gras Day is followed immediately by Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of a more reflective, spiritual time for many locals. The transition from revelry to introspection is a reminder that Mardi Gras, for all its glitz, is also a deeply meaningful celebration.

Getting Around the City

Transportation during Mardi Gras can be tricky, so plan ahead. Walking is often the fastest way to get around, especially near parade routes. The streetcar along St. Charles Avenue is a charming (and practical) option, but be prepared for delays. Rideshare prices surge, and parking can be a nightmare—another reason to drop your bags off at a bag drop New Orleans location and travel light.

A Celebration Like No Other

Whether you're coming from New York City or halfway across the world, Mardi Gras is a one-of-a-kind cultural phenomenon that should be on every bucket list. With a blend of history, art, food, music, and communal joy, it offers something for everyone. You’ll dance in the streets, meet people from every corner of the globe, and witness a 20th century tradition that still feels fresh and electric.

So come with an open heart, an empty stomach, and a festive spirit. You'll have a great time, make unforgettable memories, and leave with a deeper appreciation for what makes New Orleans a world famous tourist attraction.

After all, there’s no better place to have fun in New Orleans than during Mardi Gras.