New Orleans Celebrates Mardi Gras Carnival Finale

Revelers take to the streets for the indulgent conclusion of the Carnival season.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Crowds lined the historic streets of New Orleans on Tuesday to celebrate Mardi Gras, the climactic end of the city's weekslong Carnival season. Spectators leaned out of balconies and cheered as massive parades rolled by, marking the final chance for feasting and revelry before the Christian Lent period of sacrifice and reflection.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras is a beloved New Orleans tradition that draws thousands of visitors to the city each year, providing a major economic boost. The celebration also holds deep cultural and religious significance as the indulgent conclusion to the Carnival season.

The details

Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, marks the end of the Carnival season and precedes the Christian observance of Lent. Revelers lined the streets of New Orleans' historic St. Charles Avenue, hollering the iconic phrase 'Throw me something, Mister' as elaborate floats and costumed marchers paraded by.

  • Mardi Gras is celebrated annually on the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent.

The players

New Orleans

The city of New Orleans, Louisiana, which is renowned for its vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations.

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The takeaway

Mardi Gras is a cherished New Orleans tradition that allows the city to indulge in one last celebration before the reflective period of Lent, showcasing the community's rich cultural heritage and providing an economic boost through tourism.