Baton Rouge's Spanish Town Mardi Gras Offers Unique Celebration

Annual parade delivers vibrant atmosphere, family time, and a chance to be oneself without judgment.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Spanish Town Mardi Gras parade in Baton Rouge, Louisiana is a unique and beloved Carnival tradition that offers a vibrant atmosphere, family time, and a chance for people to be themselves without judgment or expectations. The parade is known for its sea of pink, over-the-top costumes, and neighborhood charm that sets it apart from other Mardi Gras celebrations in the city.

Why it matters

Spanish Town Mardi Gras is a longstanding tradition that allows Baton Rouge residents and visitors to unplug, be present with loved ones, and express themselves freely in a community-driven celebration. In a city known for its lively Carnival season, Spanish Town stands out as a particularly special event that reflects the unique culture and spirit of the local neighborhood.

The details

The Spanish Town Mardi Gras parade features a sea of pink, elaborate costumes, and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere that parade-goers say you can't find anywhere else in Baton Rouge. For many, it's an opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends, free from judgment or societal expectations. Attendees describe the parade as a "different level" of celebration compared to the rest of Baton Rouge's Carnival festivities.

  • The Spanish Town Mardi Gras parade takes place annually in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

The players

Danielle Augagy

A parade-goer who came out to the Spanish Town Mardi Gras for family time and fun.

Victor Diez

A parade attendee who says Spanish Town gives people permission to be themselves without judgment.

Anna Ricca

A Baton Rouge resident who describes Spanish Town as a "different level" of celebration compared to the rest of the city's Mardi Gras events.

Brad Lambert

A first-time attendee of the Spanish Town Mardi Gras parade who was surprised by the welcoming nature of the crowd.

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What they’re saying

“Today is the day that I felt… wanted to come out and have fun and spend time with my family — and I love Mardi Gras.”

— Danielle Augagy, Parade-goer (Louisiana First)

“We all live in a world where we are expected to be normal. I come out here, and I can just be me.”

— Victor Diez, Parade attendee (Louisiana First)

“I think Baton Rouge is honestly… It's already a pretty wild area, but Spanish Town is like a different level.”

— Anna Ricca (Louisiana First)

“If you ain't ever came, you need to… Everybody needs to experience Spanish Town at least once in their lifetime.”

— Brad Lambert, First-time parade attendee (Louisiana First)

What’s next

The next Spanish Town Mardi Gras parade is scheduled for February 2027.

The takeaway

Spanish Town Mardi Gras in Baton Rouge offers a unique and vibrant Carnival celebration that allows attendees to embrace their true selves, spend quality time with loved ones, and experience the welcoming spirit of the local community. The parade's distinct atmosphere sets it apart as a must-see event for both residents and visitors to Louisiana's capital city.