Alabama Delegation Unites Behind Mobile as Mardi Gras' Birthplace

U.S. House members introduce resolution to recognize Mobile as the original home of the annual celebration.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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All of Alabama's U.S. House members have agreed to introduce a congressional resolution recognizing Mobile as the birthplace of the Mardi Gras celebration, which has been held in the city for over 300 years. The resolution aims to designate Mobile as the original home of the annual festivities, which include parades, balls, and community events marking the close of Carnival and the beginning of Lent.

Why it matters

The resolution highlights the longstanding cultural and historical significance of Mardi Gras in Mobile, which predates the more widely known celebrations in New Orleans. It serves to formally recognize Mobile's role in shaping one of America's most well-known cultural traditions.

The details

U.S. Reps. Barry Moore, R-Enterprise, and Shomari Figures, D-Mobile, introduced the congressional resolution to recognize the 'cultural and historical significance' of Mardi Gras and designate Mobile as its birthplace. The resolution comes as Mobile prepares to celebrate the annual festivities, which include parades, parties, and community events.

  • Mardi Gras represents the final day of the Carnival season ahead of Lent, which begins on Wednesday.
  • The congressional resolution was introduced on February 17, 2026.

The players

Barry Moore

U.S. Representative, R-Enterprise.

Shomari Figures

U.S. Representative, D-Mobile, and a native of the city.

Robert Aderholt

U.S. Representative, R-Haleyville, and the dean of the Alabama delegation.

Terri Sewell

U.S. Representative, D-Birmingham.

Mike Rogers

U.S. Representative, R-Saks.

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What they’re saying

“For more than 300 years, the people of Mobile have celebrated Mardi Gras with parades, balls and community, marking the close of Carnival and the beginning of Lent. This tradition reflects the shared culture and community found on the Gulf Coast, passed down generation after generation. Mobile was the original home of Mardi Gras in America, and this resolution makes sure that history is recognized and remembered.”

— Barry Moore, U.S. Representative, R-Enterprise (aldailynews.com)

“Though many people associate Mardi Gras with New Orleans, it is a historical fact that Mardi Gras began on the banks of the Mobile Bay in 1703. Since then, it has blossomed into one of the greatest and most well-known cultural celebrations in America. I'm proud to write this historical fact into the Congressional Record. New Orleans, you're welcome.”

— Shomari Figures, U.S. Representative, D-Mobile (aldailynews.com)

“As we prepare for the Easter season, I am excited to join my friends in the Alabama delegation in celebrating Fat Tuesday and its roots in Mobile, Alabama.”

— Mike Rogers, U.S. Representative, R-Saks (aldailynews.com)

What’s next

The congressional resolution is expected to be voted on and passed in the coming weeks, officially recognizing Mobile as the birthplace of Mardi Gras.

The takeaway

This bipartisan effort by Alabama's U.S. House delegation underscores the deep cultural and historical significance of Mardi Gras in Mobile, which predates the more famous celebrations in New Orleans. The resolution aims to cement Mobile's rightful place as the original home of this iconic American tradition.