Well… Mardi Gras was a blast! New Orleans has become one of my favorite cities to visit – the music, food and culture always make for an amazing time. Mardi Gras is an experience in itself with costumes, street parties and parades. It’s a definite bucket list experience!
Read below for my tips for your first Mardi Gras in New Orleans!
– What is Mardi Gras –
Mardi Gras is the last Tuesday (also known ‘Fat Tuesday’) before Ash Wednesday when Lent begins. There are celebrations for weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday known as Carnival. Krewes (pronounced the same way as “crews”) are the organizations that put on parades and balls throughout Carnival season.
– What To Expect –
With Mardi Gras, my one piece of advice is… be prepared to have a ton of fun! Everyone, from young to old, from tourist to local, is there to have a blast. In fact, most schools in New Orleans close for a week to let the students enjoy the festivities. It’s a very lively atmosphere with parades, music, floats, dancing, drinking and King Cake eating.
As the parades roll by, you can try your best to catch the throws which are usually beads, cups, stuffed animals, tote bags, glasses, hats and more.
You’ll definitely want to walk along the parade route as the street will be closed to cars, and make sure to arrive early to get a good spot! There will be crowds throughout the city but try to embrace the chaos and join in on the fun.
Laissez les bon temps rouler, as they say!
– When To Go –
While Fat Tuesday is the biggest day with seemingly endless parades, the entire weekend before as well as Monday, known as Lundi Gras, are filled with celebrations and parades so plan to arrive on Thursday or Friday to get the full experience.
My favorite parades are Bacchus and Muses which are usually the weekend before Fat Tuesday. They have some of the best floats, costumes and throws!
– What To Wear –
Anything goes at Mardi Gras! Many people like to dress in costume, and you’ll see a lot of color and sequins. Remember that you’ll likely catch some wearable items too, like a funny hat, headband or pair of glasses! Just make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes that you don’t mind scuffing up a bit.
– Mardi Gras Essentials –
- Foldable Tote Bag: I keep one of these in my purse or fanny pack (it folds up!) and when if I catch a lot of throws that I want to bring up, I have a tote bag to put them in!
- Fanny Pack or Crossbody Purse: It’s really nice to have all your valuables on your waist so that you can go hands free to catch those beads.
- Rain Jacket or Umbrella: In case of rain, it’s always handy to pack one of these and save your costume from getting soaked.
- Comfy Shoes: Grab your comfy shoes and be prepared to be on your feet all day.
- Tissues and Hand Sanitizer: These are always handy to have in case you need to run into a bar bathroom or porta-potty.
- Portable Charger: This is so important if you plan to be out all day and using your phone for photos, calling friends, etc. You don’t want to end up with a dead phone battery!
- Advil and Liquid IV: All those sugary drinks (I’m looking at you Hurricanes!) can often lead to headaches. And make sure to stay hydrated — I like to keep a Liquid IV in my purse at all times!
- Wigs or Head Bands: Looking for a fun way to spruce up your costume? Adding a wig or headpiece is always a fun and easy way to dress up!
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