Galveston Kicks Off Mardi Gras Celebration

Downtown streets fill with parades, music, and revelry as annual festival begins

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Galveston's annual Mardi Gras celebration is in full swing, with crowds filling the downtown area for parades, street performances, and other festivities. The celebration kicked off on Friday and will continue through Fat Tuesday on February 17th, featuring a variety of events including the Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Parade, a street circus, and additional parades on Sunday.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras is a major cultural and economic event for Galveston, drawing thousands of visitors to the island each year. The celebration helps support local businesses and showcases the city's vibrant arts and music scene.

The details

On Saturday, the Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Parade featured 12 double-decker floats, 15 marching bands, and dance teams. A street circus is also taking place at the city's 22nd Street Stage, with aerialists, sword masters, and a fire performance. On Sunday, visitors can expect to see the Fiestas Gras Parade, a celebration of Hispanic Heritage, and the Los Locos Vaqueros Parade, which will feature marching bands, mariachi bands, jeeps, and golf carts.

  • The Mardi Gras celebration kicked off on Friday, February 7, 2026.
  • The celebration will continue through Fat Tuesday on February 17, 2026.

The players

Mystic Krewe of Aquarius

The second oldest Mardi Gras social organization in Galveston, formed in 1985 and responsible for organizing the Saturday noon parade.

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The takeaway

Galveston's annual Mardi Gras celebration is a beloved tradition that brings the community together and attracts visitors from across the region, showcasing the city's vibrant culture and supporting local businesses.