The Best Mardi Gras Parades in New Orleans: A Guide to the Must-See Events

Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” is an annual celebration held in New Orleans, Louisiana, that attracts millions of visitors from around the world. The festival is known for its vibrant parades, colorful costumes, and lively music, making it one of the most exciting events in the city.

In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans.

Krewe of Endymion
The Krewe of Endymion is one of the largest and most popular Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans. The parade features elaborate floats, colorful costumes, and live music, with celebrity grand marshals leading the way. The parade starts in Mid-City and ends at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, where the Endymion Extravaganza party takes place.

Krewe of Bacchus
The Krewe of Bacchus is another popular Mardi Gras parade that draws huge crowds each year. The parade is known for its larger-than-life floats, which often depict famous figures from history, pop culture, and mythology. The parade starts Uptown and ends at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, where the Bacchus Bash party takes place.

Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club
The Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club is one of the oldest and most unique Mardi Gras krewes in New Orleans. The krewe is known for its iconic Zulu coconuts, which are highly prized by collectors. The parade starts Uptown and ends at the Zulu clubhouse on North Broad Street, where the Zulu Ball takes place.

Krewe of Muses
The Krewe of Muses is an all-female Mardi Gras krewe that was founded in 2000. The parade is known for its clever themes, intricate floats, and beautiful hand-decorated shoes that are thrown to spectators. The parade starts Uptown and ends at the Morial Convention Center, where the Muses’ signature shoe tree is displayed.


Krewe of Orpheus
The Krewe of Orpheus is a newer Mardi Gras krewe that was founded in 1993 by Harry Connick Jr. and other New Orleans musicians. The parade is known for its elaborate floats, live music, and celebrity grand marshals. The parade starts Uptown and ends at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, where the Orpheuscapade party takes place.

These are just a few of the best Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, experiencing the energy and excitement of these parades is a must-do activity during the Mardi Gras season.