Frequently asked questions
When is Mardi Gras 2027?
Mardi Gras Day (Fat Tuesday) is February 9, 2027. Carnival season runs from Twelfth Night on January 6 through Fat Tuesday, with the biggest parades in the final week.
Is Mardi Gras free?
Yes - every street parade is free to watch. Your costs are accommodation, food and drink, and optional extras like reserved grandstand seats, balcony spots, or krewe balls.
Do the big parades go down Bourbon Street?
No. The French Quarter's streets are too narrow for large floats, so the big parades roll the Uptown route along St. Charles Avenue (and Endymion rolls Mid-City). Only walking and mule-drawn parades come through the Quarter.
Is Mardi Gras family-friendly?
Much of it is, especially the daytime Uptown parades and the neutral-ground (median) family side along St. Charles. The French Quarter at night is adult-oriented. Many families bring ladders with built-in seats for kids.
Where should I stay?
For first-timers, the CBD/Warehouse District is the easiest all-around base. The Garden District and Uptown put you right on the route. The French Quarter is best for nightlife but pricey, loud, and not where the big floats roll. Book early - rooms sell out months ahead.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes, layers for February (New Orleans averages roughly 55-65°F / 13-18°C, with occasional rain), and a poncho. Costumes are encouraged, especially on Fat Tuesday.
How do throws work?
Riders toss beads, cups, doubloons and specialty items to the crowd. Make eye contact, wave, and call out. Throws are gifts - never snatch from children, and don't fight over them.
How do I get around during Mardi Gras?
Walk whenever you can. Streetcars and many bus routes are disrupted by parade closures, parking near the route is very limited, and rideshare drop-offs move well away from the action. Plan a walking-first day.