If you are a travel lover, the Mardi Gras celebrating world-famous music, parades, and lively street parties, should be on your bucket list. From first-time visitors to seasoned revelers, a planning mardi gras trip requires strategic planning. Annual festivities in New Orleans include parades, street parties, costumes, and just a one-of-a-kind spirit of celebration. To help you have an unforgettable experience, this complete guide will guide you through everything from Mardi Gras hotels to the Youngsville Mardi Gras parade route and everything in between that you need to know when traveling.
Mardi Gras: What Is It?
Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” is a centuries-old celebration with French and Catholic origins. It is the final day before Ash Wednesday and a day celebrated with extravagant parades, masquerade balls, and parties throughout the city. All the action is in where to stay in New Orleans, but other cities, like Youngsville Mardi Gras Parade Route, know how to have a good time. Every year, Mardi Gras is different — so how is the date of Mardi Gras calculated? The celebration is held the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, which means it can fall anywhere from Feb. 3 to March 9, depending on the year.
In 2025, planning mardi gras trip will be on March 4. But the parades and events leading up to the celebration take place through January and February.
How Is the Mardi Gras Date Determined?
That means Mardi Gras falls on a different date each year because it
depends on Easter Sunday. Mardi Gras always falls 47 days before Easter, so that’s why it can fall any time between Feb. 3 and March 9. Mardi Gras in 2025 will be on Tuesday, March 4.
Mardi Gras Trip Planner: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choose Your Travel Dates Wisely
Mardi Gras reaches its peak on Fat Tuesday but is celebrated for weeks leading up to it. Most of the big parades and celebrations begin around two weeks before planning mardi gras trip. To partake in the most pleasant experiences, make it a point to arrive in New Orleans the Thursday before Mardi Gras 2025 and stay until Wednesday.
2. Where to Stay: Best Mardi Gras Hotels
Mardi Gras 2025 hotels are in high demand and can be hard to come by. If you do book early, you can nab the best locations. The best neighborhoods to stay in are:
- Best for first-time visitors who want to be near Bourbon Street: French Quarter
- Garden District: A quieter yet lovely neighborhood featuring historic mansions.
- New Orleans Downtown: The grounded fun & community.
- Mid-City: An affordable workout, still reachable from parade routes.
- TIP: Book it 6 months in advance so that you can get a hotel in a prime location.
3. How to Get Around During Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras can create a major traffic snarl in New Orleans and result in street closures. Here are your best options:
- Walking: The ideal mode of transportation around the French Quarter and parade routes.
- Streetcars: Well scenic and cheap.
- Rideshares & Taxis: Prices increase during peak hours, so budget for that.
- Bikes: A good option if you prefer flexibility.
4. Must-See Parades and Events
Parades are the centerpiece of Mardi Gras. Below are the best of the best you don’t want to miss while planning a mardi gras trip:
- Krewe of Endymion (Saturday before Mardi Gras): A vibrant parade with ornate floats.
- Krewe of Bacchus (Sunday before Mardi Gras): Night parade; one of the most famous.
- Krewe of Zulu (Mardi Gras Day): Famous for its golden coconuts!
- Krewe of Rex (Mardi Gras Day): The oldest and most illustrious parade.
- Youngsville Mardi Gras Parade Route: Fun and family-friendly option outside New Orleans.
5. Things to Do in New Orleans for Mardi Gras (Besides Parades)
If you want to take a breather from the parades, there are plenty of exciting things to do in New Orleans during Mardi Gras:
- Experience the French Quarter: Walk around historic bars, restaurants, and listening rooms for live jazz.
- Go on a Ghost Tour: Learn about the haunted past of New Orleans.
- Go to the Mardi Gras Museum: Discover the festival’s history and craftsmanship.
- Do Beignets at Café du Monde: A first timer’s stop.
- Mardi Gras: Experience Bourbon Street: The most renowned party street during a Mardi Gras
7. Packing for Mardi Gras: What to Bring
What to Take A Packing List for Mardi Gras
- Travel light, but bring these essentials:
- Good shoes (you’ll be doing plenty of walking)
- Costume & Masks (it’s Mardi Gras, you have to dress up!)
- Rain poncho or umbrella (weather may be unpredictable)
- Portable phone charger (to document the memories)
- Cash (not everywhere accepts cards)
Where to Stay in New Orleans for Mardi Gras: Top Hotels
So ditch the cool hotel for one of these popular Mardi Gras hotels:
- Royal Sonesta New Orleans – A Bourbon Street property for the partiers.
- The Roosevelt New Orleans – A stay with historic luxury.
- Hotel Monteleone — Known for its rotating Carousel Bar.
- Le Pavillon Hotel — Comfortable rooms near the parade routes.
- Ace Hotel New Orleans – Michipicoten boutique hotel
Tips for Enjoying Mardi Gras Like a Local
- Come early to parades — Some arrive hours early to stake their places.
- Respect the traditions — Don’t pick up beads that are on the ground!
- Hydrate — It is a long day in the sun drinking.
- Beware of pickpockets – Don’t flash your valuables.
- Follow the local laws — Open container laws are enforced, but no glass bottles are allowed.
Mardi Gras 2025 Hotels: Booking Early Is Key
Mardi Gras being one of the largest celebrations in the U.S. drives demand for hotels through the roof. Booking 6 months in advance allows a good deal. If hotels are booked, Airbnb rentals in the greater area like Metairie or Mid-City will probably be cheaper.
Conclusion
The biggest holiday of them all, Mardi Gras is another great reason to become a regular tourist or traveler in your local area, with just the touch of a holiday feeling and a good dose of culture, music, and fun. A Mardi Gras trip planner, parade route, and the best Mardi Gras hotels whether you want to know it all, this guide is the one to read. prepare for the momentum planning mardi gras trip 2025! A trip to New Orleans for Mardi Gras takes a bit of planning but if done right, it can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
FAQ About Planning a Mardi Gras Trip
How is the Mardi Gras date determined?
Mardi Gras falls on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. The date changes yearly based on the lunar calendar.
When should I book my Mardi Gras 2025 hotel?
As soon as possible! Ideally, book your hotel 6-12 months in advance.
What are the best things to do in New Orleans for Mardi Gras?
In addition to parades, you can explore Bourbon Street, visit historic sites, enjoy jazz music, and savor Creole cuisine.
Is Mardi Gras family-friendly?
Yes! Many areas, like St. Charles Avenue, are great for families. However, the French Quarter is better suited for adults.
What is the Youngsville Mardi Gras parade route?
The Youngsville parade takes place outside New Orleans and features family-friendly festivities, making it a great alternative for those looking to escape the larger crowds.
How far in advance should I book my trip to Mardi Gras?
At least 6-8 months in advance to secure the best hotels and flight deals.
What is the best way to get around New Orleans during Mardi Gras?
Walking and public transportation (streetcars) are the best ways due to heavy traffic.
Can I bring my alcohol to the parades?
Yes, but no glass containers are allowed. Stick to plastic cups or cans.
Where is the best place to watch the parades?
The Garden District and St. Charles Avenue offer great viewing spots without the intense crowds of the French Quarter.
