Mardi Gras Parades Expected to Roll Despite Arctic Chill

Parade organizers say they can handle the cold, but question whether revelers will want to attend.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:23am

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Despite forecasts of freezing temperatures, Mardi Gras parade organizers in New Orleans say the show will go on this weekend. Arthur Hardy, founder of the Mardi Gras Guide, notes that parades have only been canceled twice due to cold weather, in 1899 and 1958 when it snowed. Hardy says the decision to proceed rests with the krewe captains, who will consider the safety of their riders and revelers. While local authorities are unlikely to step in and cancel the parades, Hardy advises attendees to dress warmly and avoid alcohol to brave the frigid conditions.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras is a major cultural and economic event for New Orleans, with parades and celebrations drawing large crowds. Canceling the parades would be a significant disappointment for the city and its residents, as well as a financial blow to businesses that rely on the influx of visitors. The decision to proceed despite the cold weather highlights the resilience and determination of the Mardi Gras tradition.

The details

According to Hardy, parades have only been canceled twice due to cold weather, in 1899 and 1958 when it snowed. He notes that while the city can handle parading in cold conditions, the question is whether revelers will want to attend. Krewe captains will make the final decision, taking into account the safety of their riders and spectators. Hardy says moving the parades to another date is not feasible, as the floats and bands are already committed to other events.

  • Temperatures are expected to stay at or below freezing for the vast majority of the weekend.

The players

Arthur Hardy

The founder of the Mardi Gras Guide, who has extensive knowledge and experience with the Mardi Gras tradition in New Orleans.

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What they’re saying

“I only remember twice (when) cold weather canceled parades. So we can parade in cold. The question is: do we want to?”

— Arthur Hardy, Founder, Mardi Gras Guide (audacy.com)

“People talk about, well, just reschedule to next Saturday: you can't. Those floats (and) those bands are already committed to other groups. I don't know of any contingency plans if we don't go this weekend. (People say) 'Ah, we can go any other time.' It's just not that easy.”

— Arthur Hardy, Founder, Mardi Gras Guide (audacy.com)

“Well, avoid alcohol and dress warm. It's just going to be cold. There's not doubt about it. Even the hardiest of paradegoers will have some tough decisions to make.”

— Arthur Hardy, Founder, Mardi Gras Guide (audacy.com)

What’s next

Krewe captains will make the final decision on whether to proceed with their scheduled parades this weekend, taking into account the safety and comfort of their riders and spectators.

The takeaway

The resilience and determination of the Mardi Gras tradition in New Orleans is on full display, as organizers prepare to move forward with parades despite the expected Arctic chill. While the cold weather may deter some revelers, the show will go on, highlighting the community's commitment to preserving this iconic cultural event.