✈️ Travel
New Orleans Mardi Gras: A Survival Guide
Mardi Gras is the biggest party in America " — but if you don't know what you're doing, you'll miss the best parts. Here's how to celebrate like a local.
Key Dates
- Krewe of Boo: October (Halloween Mardi Gras)
- Parades start: Two weeks before Fat Tuesday
- Family Gras: Weekend before Mardi Gras (family-friendly)
- Fat Tuesday: The main event " — all day party
- Ash Wednesday: The morning after " — quiet reflection
Best Parade Routes
| Parade | Night | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Endymion | Saturday before Fat Tuesday | Floats, music, throws |
| Bacchus | Sunday before Fat Tuesday | Celebrity kings, huge floats |
| Orpheus | Monday before Fat Tuesday | Beautiful floats, music |
| Rex | Fat Tuesday day | Traditional, King of Carnival |
| Zulu | Fat Tuesday morning | Original throws, coconuts |
Where to Stay
- Garden District: Beautiful homes, quieter, streetcar access
- French Quarter: Walking distance to everything, expensive
- Warehouse District: Near parades, good restaurants
- Marigny: Hipster vibe, live music, close to French Quarter
The bead strategy: Don't chase beads " — they're everywhere. The best throws are Zulu coconuts, Bacchus medallions, and Endymion cups. Stand on St. Charles Avenue for the best parade viewing " — less crowded than Bourbon Street.
⚠️ Mardi Gras Tips:
- Don't wear your best clothes " — they will get stained
- Don't walk alone at night " — stick to well-lit areas
- Don't drink too much " — pace yourself, it's a marathon
- Don't miss the food " — po'boys, beignets, gumbo are essential
The bottom line: Mardi Gras is best experienced over2-3 days, not just Fat Tuesday. Stay in the Garden District or Marigny for a local feel. Watch parades on St. Charles Avenue, eat at Commander's Palace, and don't chase beads " — the best throws come to you.