The most famous American carnival takes place here in New Orleans. So closely associated with the city and revered by its residents, it stands head and shoulders above the carnivals of Rio and Venice. A veritable explosion of music, colour and colourful costumes, Carnival remains a unique moment in NoLa's calendar. Mardi Gras takes place the day before Ash Wednesday, but the festivities begin as early as the end of January.
Mardi Gras parade float New Orleans
- © GTS Productions / Shutterstock
The history of carnival in Louisiana dates back to March 1699! The first official Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans took place in 1857.
As the carnival developed, it became an unmissable event. This success united the city's inhabitants.
Every New Orleanian wanted to take part in the parades. Some create their own colourful costumes, the most impressive of which can weigh over 50 kilos!
New Orleans street in carnival colors
- © amadeustx / ShutterstockA colour code has been established, and New Orleans carnival is associated with gold, purple and green. Each colour has a meaning: gold for power, purple for justice and green for faith.
In fact, the first preparations and parades begin long before the big night, on 6 January each year!
The date of Mardi Gras changes every year. To help you get organised, here are the dates for the next 3 years:
On D-Day (the most eagerly-awaited Tuesday of the year), parades, huge floats and frenzied brass bands parade through the town. The imposing floats are often pulled by tractors!
Various brotherhoods (krewes) work hard to make their floats and costumes as resplendent as possible. Each team follows a set route.
The floats are accompanied by brass bends (a musical group made up of instruments from the brass family) who liven up the parade.
As well as being a festival of colour and extravagance, carnival is also a time for communion. Festival-goers throw colourful trinkets at onlookers. Bead necklaces, gifts, toys - the crowds are spoilt for choice, some of them bursting at the seams with colourful necklaces!
New Orleans carnival character
- © William A. Morgan / ShutterstockAmong the various brotherhoods that parade and enliven Carnival, some are more famous than others. These include
During Carnival, tourists and locals alike celebrate the King cake
King Cake the New Orleans carnival cake
- © Jennifer White Maxwell / ShutterstockAn inseparable part of the festive season, King Cake is a bit like our Galette des rois. It is shaped like a doughnut (with cinnamon) and covered in icing sugar.
The 3 carnival colours (purple, yellow and green) are used to colour the cake, and the bean is often a plastic baby - pure kitsch...
Yes, you read that right, you can discover the Mardi Gras World Museum and its magical world.
Here you can see the old floats, decorations and accessories, each more fabulous than the last. You can even dress up as you please at the end of the visit.
The designers of the floats are often present, working on their new marvels.
The museum is open all year round, except on certain public holidays and Mardi Gras!
Decoration during the New Orleans Carnival
- © William A. Morgan / Shutterstock
New Orleans
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Where to eat during Carnival in New Orleans?
The city is bursting at the seams! Plan to eat before the parades start or choose less popular areas. Otherwise, remember to make reservations, as the restaurants are packed!
When should you go to New Orleans Carnival?
You can see the beginnings and preparations for the carnival as early as January. But the most exciting part of the carnival takes place just before and during Mardi Gras!
Mardi Gras float in New Orleans
- © William A. Morgan / ShutterstockHow do I get to Carnival in New Orleans?
The city is literally overrun by crowds around Mardi Gras, so take public transport. There are shuttles to the various lively spots in New Orleans.
Where can I park during Carnival in New Orleans?
Choose neighbourhoods less affected by the parades; Marigny is often quieter.
Finally, there's even an official website dedicated to the carnival!
