Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is known as the biggest and most colorful celebration in the world. Lafayette proudly boasts the second largest Mardi Gras celebration in Louisiana. At Carnival time, Mardi Gras mystery joins with Cajun and Creole magic to create a memorable experience for all ages. Lafayette's Carnival season lets the good times roll with parades, balls and traditions from the city's pageantry and floats to the rural medieval costumed horseback riders. Festivities build the weekend before Lent, climaxing Mardi Gras Day.

Day 1 - Friday: Arrive in Lafayette. Full day of touring using our annual Mardi Gras brochure as a guide to Mardi Gras programs. Le Festival du Mardi Gras à Lafayette features live music, rides and games on the carnival midway, and a prime spot for parade viewing throughout Mardi Gras weekend.

• 6:30 p.m. - Mardi Gras Kick-off Parade

Day 2 - Saturday: Full day of touring.

• 2:00 p.m. - Children's Mardi Gras Parade
• 6:00 p.m. - Krewe of Bonaparte Parade
• 8:00 p.m. - Dinner at one of Lafayette's restaurants featuring authentic Cajun and Creole food.

Day 3 - Sunday: For the rural flavor of Mardi Gras, attend area activities in nearby small communities.

Day 4 - Monday: Full day of touring.

• 6:00 p.m. - Queen's Parade
• 8:00 p.m. - Krewe of Triton Parade

Day 5 - Fat Tuesday: Full day of Mardi Gras activities in Lafayette.

• 9:00 a.m. - Costume contest followed by live music and festivities at the King's Court in downtown Lafayette.
• 10:00 a.m. - King's Parade
• 1:30 p.m. - Lafayette Mardi Gras Association Parade
• 2:30 p.m. - KPEL/KTDY Jambalaya Independent Parade
• 8:00 p.m. - Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association Pageant and Ball, Heymann Performing Arts Center, Lafayette.