Mardi Gras is a celebration unlike any other. Known for its vibrant parades, exciting parties, and incredible costumes, this festival draws thousands of revelers every year. But where to celebrate Mardi Gras in the U.S. is a big decision—there are so many amazing destinations to choose from! Whether you’re looking for large, lively celebrations or more intimate festivities, the U.S. has plenty of options to offer.
Here in this guide, we will highlight the top places for Mardi Gras in the U.S. to assist you with choosing the best location to partake in the celebration. And, naturally, in case you need the ideal Mardi Gras costume to suit the event, Oasis Supply Company is there to assist you with everything from beads to costumes!
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
There's no location like New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras. As the birthplace of the celebration, New Orleans presents one of the most lavish and vibrant Mardi Gras travel spots on earth. With its storied parades, glitzy attire, and countless beads tossed by float riders, it's simply the place to be for Mardi Gras.
Among the most renowned parades held in the city are the Krewe of Endymion, Krewe of Bacchus, and the Krewe of Zulu. Whether at a ball, soaking in the French Quarter's celebration vibe, or just part of the party, New Orleans' Mardi Gras is the best. Don't miss out on picking up your mask and costume at Oasis Supply Company to blend in!
2. Mobile, Alabama
Did you know that Mobile, Alabama, had the first American Mardi Gras celebration in the U.S.? Yes, it's a fact! While New Orleans tends to get the most attention, Mobile is also one of the top Mardi Gras destinations in its own right. Famous for having centuries-old celebrations, Mobile has a less rowdy, family-oriented Mardi Gras, with parades, balls, and lots of food.
The city's Mardi Gras parades are staged by local krewes, which are social clubs that coordinate floats and activities. Some of the largest parades in Mobile are the King Felix and the Order of Myths parades. If you want a more authentic Mardi Gras experience, Mobile is where you need to be.
3. Galveston, Texas
If you happen to be in Texas during Mardi Gras, head to Galveston! This beach town has a fun and one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras experience. The island erupts with parades, street parties, and masquerade balls annually. The renowned Mardi Gras parade on the Seawall includes floats, music, and amazing costumes that attract thousands of tourists.
Besides the parades, Galveston boasts wonderful food and live music, further enhancing the festive mood. Whether you are on the beach or in the city center, Galveston's Mardi Gras is an experience you will never forget.
4. Lafayette, Louisiana
Though New Orleans is perhaps the most well-known Mardi Gras destination in the state of Louisiana, Lafayette provides a distinct and embracing experience for those seeking to enjoy the festival with less traffic. Where Cajun culture abounds, Lafayette has a lower-key, family-oriented environment that renders it one of the top locations to celebrate Mardi Gras in a small town.
Parades, live music, and Cajun food are all on the agenda for Lafayette's Mardi Gras. It's a good choice if you want to experience a party without the overpopulated crowds of the larger cities.
5. St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis isn't the first city that pops into your head when you hear "Mardi Gras," but this Midwestern metropolis has learned how to party! Each year, St. Louis features one of the biggest Mardi Gras celebrations in the country, attracting more than 300,000 to the city. The celebration features a massive parade, great grub, live bands, and an enormous street bash in the historic Soulard district.
St. Louis Mardi Gras also has a pet parade, where dogs and their owners dress up in Mardi Gras attire. If you're in the neighborhood, St. Louis needs to be on your list of places to visit for Mardi Gras.
6. Richmond, Virginia
For a more relaxed Mardi Gras celebration, go to Richmond, Virginia. Richmond provides a fun and lively Mardi Gras experience without the overloading crowds. The city's festivities revolve around the well-known "Mardi Gras Ball," in which guests can dance, listen to live music, and have cocktails.
Richmond also has a wide range of parades, street festivals, and events that showcase the city's cultural diversity. Whether visiting with friends or family, Richmond is an ideal location to celebrate Mardi Gras in a more laid-back, though still lively, atmosphere.
7. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is famous for its Southern hospitality, and its Mardi Gras party is no different. The old city has various events lined up during the carnival, such as parades, masquerade balls, and street parties. The festivities are kid-friendly, with plenty of activities for children, such as face painting, games, and crafts.
Savannah's Mardi Gras is smaller than New Orleans', but it has a warmer, cozier feel that maintains the essence of the celebration. If you're seeking a smaller, distinctive Mardi Gras experience, then Savannah is the destination for you.
8. Tampa, Florida
Tampa features one of the Sunshine State's biggest Mardi Gras parties, and it's certainly one of the state's best destinations for Mardi Gras. The city celebrates with parades, parties, and even a Mardi Gras Ball at historic Gasparilla Inn. The centerpiece of Tampa's Mardi Gras celebration is its Gasparilla Parade, with lavish floats and a showering of beads.
Also, Tampa has an excellent combination of Mardi Gras celebrations and Florida's pleasant weather, so it is a great place to go for someone who wants to get out of the cold winter.
9. Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is not necessarily the first city that pops into mind when thinking of Mardi Gras, but it's fast becoming a favorite among those who want to celebrate. The city has a lively Mardi Gras parade, along with live jazz and Southern cuisine. Local businesses in the area also host their own Mardi Gras parties, complete with costumes and beads.
The Mardi Gras celebration in Kansas City is growing each year, and the city's rich history and lively atmosphere make it a fantastic option for anyone looking to join in the festivities.
10. Washington, D.C.
For those who want to experience Mardi Gras but still want to be near the country's capital, Washington, D.C. is a good choice. The city has various Mardi Gras-themed activities, such as parades, parties, and a giant masquerade ball. Mardi Gras in the District is not as big as New Orleans but is equally as much fun and gives the festival a different twist.
Conclusion
Mardi Gras is a time for play, creativity, and togetherness, and there's no lack of Mardi Gras locations throughout the U.S. From the famous streets of New Orleans to the under-the-radar spots such as Richmond and Kansas City, each city has its own spin on the celebration. Wherever you are, you can bet that you'll see parades, parties, and lots of beads!