Mardi Gras Celebrations Kick Off in New Orleans

Parades, beads, and revelry mark the start of the annual festivities.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The annual Mardi Gras celebrations have begun in New Orleans, with parades, beads, and revelry filling the streets of the French Quarter. Bourbon Street is bustling with crowds enjoying the start of the festivities ahead of the Lenten season.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras is a beloved annual tradition in New Orleans, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the city's unique culture, music, and cuisine. The celebrations mark the final days before the more somber Lenten season begins.

The details

The Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans feature elaborate parades with colorful floats, marching bands, and costumed participants throwing beads and other trinkets to the crowds lining the streets. Bourbon Street is the epicenter of the revelry, with bars, restaurants, and street performers entertaining the masses.

  • The Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans traditionally begin on Epiphany (January 6) and culminate on Mardi Gras Day, the day before Ash Wednesday.

The players

New Orleans

The city of New Orleans, Louisiana, is known for its vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations, which are a major part of the city's cultural identity and a significant economic driver.

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What’s next

The Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans will continue through Mardi Gras Day on February 25, 2026, with a variety of parades, parties, and other events taking place throughout the city.

The takeaway

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a unique and iconic cultural event that attracts visitors from around the world to experience the city's rich history, music, and cuisine. The annual celebrations are a cherished tradition that bring the community together in a spirit of revelry and celebration.