How to Plan the Best Mardi Gras Vacation in 2025
If you have always been enamored with the masks, the beads, and the revelry, this is a great year to head to New Orleans for the world’s biggest party. In NOLA, the Carnival holiday is filled with traditions, festivities, and parades. If you’re ready to go, we’re ready to help you plan the best Mardi Gras Vacation in 2025.
Understand Mardi Gras
The Carnival season in NOLA begins on January 6, which is known as the Twelfth Night or Epiphany. It is celebrated with a group called Phunny Phorty Fellows, an annual celebratory ride on the St. Charles Streetcar. Celebrations intensify as the season concludes with the coming of the Christian Lenton season that begins on Ash Wednesday.
There is More Than the French Quarter
The French Quarter is New Orleans’ signature neighborhood, and many people hope to visit it while on vacation. It is important to understand that Bourbon Street and the French Quarter are not bad places to go, however, they can become rowdier and more dangerous at night and the height of celebrations, especially after parades. Unless you are looking for a more spring-break-style party, it’s best to visit these places at more low-key times during your trip.
Get to Know the Krewes
If you have only seen pictures, you might reasonably assume that the is one huge parade for Mardi Gras in NOLA. In fact, there are many parades. The parades are produced by “krewes,” each responsible for their own parades and balls. You can find parades in an array of locations held throughout the Carnival season by different krewes or combinations of krewes. The parades are free and unticketed, however, balls are almost always ticketed events and some are invitation only.
Decide What to See and Do
Mardi Gras celebrations go on for weeks before Lent and include parties, balls, and other events. It’s important to know which things you are most interested in seeing and doing because that will impact when you want to go to NOLA and where you will want to stay while there. It will also help to keep you from missing out on any bucket list experiences you are hoping for.