Entergy New Orleans Warns Against Mylar Balloons, Confetti Cannons on Parade Routes

Power outages and safety concerns prompt restrictions on certain Mardi Gras props

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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As Mardi Gras parades roll through New Orleans, Entergy New Orleans is reminding revelers that mylar balloons and confetti cannons are prohibited along the parade routes. These items have caused power outages in previous years due to the metallic coating on mylar balloons acting as a conductor of electricity. Entergy officials warn that using these items could result in citations and disruptions to the parades.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras is a major annual celebration in New Orleans, and ensuring the safety and reliability of the power grid is crucial during this busy time. Entergy's restrictions aim to prevent dangerous situations and minimize disruptions to the parades that are a central part of the festivities.

The details

Entergy Line Superintendent Norris Williams explained that the metallic coating on mylar balloons can lead to power outages that affect thousands of people. Deanna Rodriguez, the CEO of Entergy New Orleans, noted that these outages are difficult to restore, especially on parade routes where Entergy crews have limited access. Entergy officials say they will issue citations to anyone who causes an outage by releasing mylar balloons or using confetti cannons.

  • Mardi Gras parades are now rolling every day through Fat Tuesday (February 25, 2026).

The players

Entergy New Orleans

The local electric utility company serving the New Orleans area.

Deanna Rodriguez

The CEO of Entergy New Orleans.

Norris Williams

The Entergy Line Superintendent.

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What they’re saying

“This is something that you don't want to ruin everyone else's parade. Don't rain on everyone else's parade by shooting mylar balloons and confetti cannons.”

— Deanna Rodriguez, CEO of Entergy New Orleans (WGNO)

“It can knock out thousands of people. Way to go back to our reclosures where to operate our breaker, and to her point, when we do that, it's hard for us to restore, especially on a parade route, because that's when that normally happens.”

— Norris Williams, Entergy Line Superintendent (WGNO)

What’s next

Entergy officials say they will issue citations to anyone who causes a power outage by releasing mylar balloons or using confetti cannons along the Mardi Gras parade routes.

The takeaway

Entergy New Orleans is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and reliability of the power grid during the Mardi Gras celebrations, reminding revelers that certain props like mylar balloons and confetti cannons are prohibited due to the risk of power outages and other safety concerns.