If you’ve lived in South Louisiana long enough, you know Mardi Gras isn’t just a party. It is a tradition, a culture, and a season full of connection. Whether you are heading into New Orleans, Metairie, or along the Northshore routes, planning ahead makes all the difference between a stressful day and an unforgettable experience.

Here is your complete local guide to enjoying Mardi Gras like a pro, from safety tips to what to pack, where to park, and how to make it fun for kids too.

🎺 Safety First: Tips Every Parade Goer Should Know

Mardi Gras is family friendly when done right, but crowds can get busy. A few smart steps go a long way.

Pick a designated meeting spot in case someone gets separated.
Write your phone number on a child’s wristband or shoe tag.
Stay behind barricades and never step between floats.
Keep hydrated even when it is cool outside.
Bring a small flashlight or use your phone light for nighttime parades.
Avoid glass containers since many areas prohibit them.

If you are bringing a wagon or stroller, stay toward the back of the crowd where movement is easier and safer.

🚗 Where to Park or When to Uber

Parking strategy can make or break your Mardi Gras day.

Best parking tips include arriving early at least two to three hours before major parades. Look for residential areas just outside the main route and walk in. Avoid blocking driveways or intersections because tickets happen fast.

Uber and rideshare tips include setting pickup locations a few blocks away from the parade route, expecting surge pricing after parades end, and taking a screenshot of your drop off location so you can find it later.

Many locals prefer parking farther away and walking because it saves time when it is time to head home.

🎒 What to Bring to the Parade Route

Think comfort and convenience.

Must have items include folding chairs or lightweight stools, a blanket or tarp for kids to sit on, baby wipes and hand sanitizer, sunscreen even in winter, a portable phone charger, and a small crossbody bag instead of a large purse.

Optional but helpful items include a step ladder for kids to stand safely and see better and a clear tote for easy security checks.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Mardi Gras With Kids: Making It Magical

Mardi Gras can be one of the best family traditions when you plan around your children’s needs.

Choose daytime parades when possible. Bring snacks and activities for downtime. Teach kids parade etiquette by saying “throw me something” politely and watching for beads safely. Let them wear costumes or themed outfits because it makes the day extra fun.

Family focused parade areas usually feel calmer and more community oriented than crowded nightlife sections.

🥪 What Food to Bring

A good Mardi Gras setup always includes food. You do not have to overthink it. Simple Louisiana style snacks work best.

Great parade foods include muffuletta sliders or small po’boy sandwiches, ham sandwhiches, chicken salad or pasta salad in small containers, bags of zaps potatoe chips, crackers cheese cubes and fruit, king cake slices, chips trail mix or granola bars. And.... let's not forget a box of Popeye's fried chicken (the ultimate go to star of the food selection)

Keep it easy to grab and easy to clean up. Freeze water bottles the night before so they stay cold longer.

🎶 Music for the Mardi Gras Vibe

While the floats bring their own soundtracks, having a small speaker for downtime keeps the energy up.

Perfect Mardi Gras playlist ideas include brass band classics, zydeco and Cajun music, New Orleans jazz, New Orleans rap, and upbeat Louisiana country or dance hits. There are a ton of Mardi Gras playlist already made on apple music, pandora, and Spotify to name a few. 

Keep the volume respectful so everyone around you can still enjoy the parade announcements. (and let's not forget to play the clean version)

💜 A Local Reminder

Mardi Gras is about community, tradition, and making memories. Whether you are catching beads along St. Charles, enjoying Northshore parades, or introducing your kids to their first float, a little planning makes the experience smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

Celebrate safely, look out for each other, and do not forget that the best throws are not always the biggest beads but the memories you make along the route.

Happy Mardi Gras 🎭