Parade Maps and Apps
In 2025, Mardi Gras happenings and parades begin on Twelfth Night (January 6) and run through Fat Tuesday (March 4). Never has it been easier to have vital information at your fingertips — and not just for the big float parades that draw most of the attention.
American Routes
Produced and hosted by Nick Spitzer, New Orleans-based American Routes is a nationally distributed radio program usually focusing on individual artists or particular themes, musical genres, holidays, events or places.
Louisiana Music Factory
Louisiana Music Factory is an essential destination — a veritable shrine worthy of pilgrimage — in a city whose musical heritage and vibrancy is second to none.
WWOZ
The mission of the “Guardians of the Groove” at WWOZ is to serve as the worldwide voice, archive and flag-bearer of New Orleans culture and musical heritage.
Parties and Balls
While “society” Carnival balls are private affairs for krewe members and their invited, formally attired guests, some krewe fêtes — including post-parade “extravaganzas” staged by Endymion, Orpheus and Tucks — are accessible to non-members. Costuming or fan…
How to Ride in a Parade
Riding on a float in a Mardi Gras parade — bestowing coveted baubles into the outstretched hands of a jazzed crowd — can be quite…
Parade Ladders
Step ladders with seats attached are a favorite way to provide kids with a prime parade perch and help them snag lots of throws.
Flashing for Beads
As flashing for beads has evolved into a Mardi Gras pastime, “Show your tits!” has become as much a part of the lexicon as “Throw…
Balconies & Grandstands
While there’s something to be said for mixing it up with the hoi polloi in the streets, let’s face it: The crowds can get thick and unruly, and a restricted-access perch access does offer certain advantages.
Drinking and Mardi Gras
Alcohol flows more freely in New Orleans than almost anywhere else in the United States, and New Orleans cops are generally tolerant of intoxicated partiers…
Weather and Clothing
Weather in New Orleans during Mardi Gras can vary considerably, so be sure to pack appropriate clothing.
Finding a Place to Pee
Incorporating lavatory logistics into your Mardi Gras game plan.
Hotel Rooms
Factors to weigh in choosing hotels for Mardi Gras and when to book them.
Dealing with the Police
New Orleans cops generally take a “live and let live” approach during Mardi Gras, but that doesn’t mean the coast is all clear when sailing…
Driving and Parking
Perhaps the only thing worse than getting caught in parade-related traffic is returning from a parade to find your car has been towed for being…
Ride-sharing, Taxis and Public Transportation
Ride-sharing and public transportation apps have greatly improved options for getting by in New Orleans without a car.
Bringing the Kids
Bringing the kids to Mardi Gras is routine for most locals but more of a logistical challenge for visitors.
Tips and Tricks Intro
Advice and insights on navigating the ins and outs of a sprawling extravaganza that can be challenging to get one’s arms around.
Throw-Catching Tips
Increasing your chances of reaping a worthy share of the coveted spoils begins with recognizing that, while throws are sometimes tossed at random to parade…
Words to the Wise
Be mindful of the fact that the laissez-faire atmosphere of Mardi Gras can cause visitors to become more prone to take risks and let their…
Parade Tips
New Orleans Mardi Gras parades are a feast for the senses, with floats that bemuse and entertain, bands full of joyful noise, inspired dance troupes…