Curator’s statement
A little known secret of the weekend before the weekend leading up to Fat Tuesday is “local’s weekend”. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the season when it’s a little less busy, especially if you want to be among a lot of the local crowds. There are many awesome parades and still very family friendly.
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Where to stay in New Orleans
The Eliza Jane - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Elegant property in New Orleans in a converted newspaper office from the 19th-century with art deco-inspired rooms.
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Maison de La Luz (Permanently Closed)
Your elegant and intimate escape in New Orleans, where luxury, artistic inspiration, and southern charm unite for a delightful stay in the Crescent City.
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The Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection by Hilton
Trendy art deco hotel with a French restaurant and a rooftop bar in New Orleans' Warehouse District.
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Things to do in New Orleans
Parades
Mardi Gras Parade Krewe’s are social organizations and each has a unique history and theme. Some krewe’s have been around for decades, while others have been in existence for just a few years. If you're lucky, some of the Krewe’s have signature glitter throw’s. Parade days are a commitment, many of these parades have multiple floats, marching bands, dance clubs so there is lots to see and catch!
Before you arrive download one of these parade apps. They are helpful to see the schedule and also to track the parades. WDSU Parade App (Apple only) or WWL Parade Tracker (Apple or Android)
Friday - Night Time Parades
Krewe of Oshun - Founded in 1996, the Krewe of Oshun is named for the Yoruba goddess of love and intimacy. The Krewe of Oshun has 300 riders with 20 floats.
Krewe of Cleopatra - Founded in 1972, the Krewe of Cleopatra is an all female krewe with 30 floats. Their main signature throw are acrylic cups.
Krewe of Alla - Founded in 1932, the Krewe of Alla has 300 riders and their signature throw are hand decorated genie lamps.
Saturday - Day Parades
Krewe of Ponchartrain - Founded in 1975, the Krewe of Pontchartrain has a few fun signature floats including Mr. Mudbug (the world’s largest crawfish) and and a giant fish dubbed “The Super Grouper”
Legion of Mars - The Legion of Mars honors all that serve. It was founded by the Cincinnatis Club, the krewe was founded by combat veterans in 2013. The procession includes first responders, law enforcement, and veterans.
Krewe of Choctaw - Founded in 1935, the krewe has 275 riders with 16 floats. It’s one of a few krewe’s that allow children to ride. Their main signature throw is the decorated tomahawks.
Krewe of Feret - The Krewe of Feret paraded for more than 40 years until the late 90’s. In 2011 the krewe was reformed with a few Loyola graduates to unify young professionals. Today, the co-ed krewe is known for locally produced throws including hand decorated items. They have 500 riders with 18 floats and two superfloats.
Krewe of Sparta - Founded in 1951, the Knights of Sparta take their name from the city-state in southern Greece. The krewe has 300 rides and 17 floats.
Sunday - Day Parades
Krewe of Pygmalion - Founded in 2000, Pygmalion was a Cypress king who sculpted a statue of the sea nymph Galatea. So real and beautiful was the status of Pygmalion, he fell helplessly in love. Pygmalion has 550 co-ed riders with 25 floats. Their main signature throw is a glittered pig!
Krewe of Femme Fatale - Founded in 2013, Femme Fatale is known for woman empowerment. They have 1,500 riders with 38 floats. Their signature throw is a bejeweled mirror compact symbolizing a constant inward and outward reflection.
Krewe of Carrollton - Founded in 1924, Carrollton is the fourth oldest paraging organization. They have 575 riders with 27 floats. Their signature throw is a decorated shrimp boot.
Krewe of King Arthur - Founded in 1977, King Arthur a co-ed krewe and is the largest krewe on this local’s weekend with 3,000 riders. They have 70 floats and their signature throw are hand decorated grails.
Places to eat & drink in New Orleans
Breakfast
Bearcat CBD - They have a diverse fantastic menu and also vegan, gluten free, and offer low fat options.
Ruby Slipper - They have three downtown locations. They are know for their cane butter so the biscuit is a must! You can get on the waitlist in advance.
Willa Jean - The cornbread is a must! They are known for their biscuit sandwiches. You can get on the waitlist in advance.
Lunch
Grab and go will be the best bet on parade days.
If your staying at one of the hotels within the Warehouse District there is a local grocery store you can pick up to go foods, snacks, don't forget a King Cake! Stop by Rouses the one located at 701 Baronne St is most convenient.
Jimmy John's - For sandwiches to pack in the cooler.
Cochon Butcher - This could be a lunch or a dinner options. They are known for their charcuterie + sausage boards. They also offer small plates and sandwiches. Highly recommend a Nola favorite the Muffaletta or the Cubano is five stars!
Dinner
Reservations may be a good choice during this busy season at some of these options
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - They offer many options like salads, burgers, pasta's, and American fare.
Peche - Peche offers great seafood options but if you are looking for steak their hanger steak is amazing! It would be best to make reservations at this location.
Cochon Restaurant - If your looking for some local Louisiana food. It would be best to make reservations at this location.
Gyu-Kaku - Will satisfy after a busy day parading! Traditional Korean BBQ is their specialty. It would be best to make reservations at this location.
Need to know
Tips from a local:
Where to watch? Depending on where you are staying the parades roll down St. Charles Avenue. At Gallier Hall there are grandstands. They are a good way to watch. They do require purchasing tickets in advance.
If you're watching from the street you will want to grab a spot early! Early in the day is a good time to save some space. When the parade’s start you will be amazed at how many people will fill in any empty space.
Take a couple of camp chairs and a cooler for drinks and snacks.
Locate a place to use the restroom. There are portable toilets and some restaurants where you can purchase a wristband for use during the parades. This is important because once the parades start rolling it gets busy and it may be hard to find something quick.
Make sure you have a few bags to carry your loot! Reusable shopping bags are great.
Food to go is your best option during parades. Some local favorites are fried chicken, sandwiches, and snacks. Check for a local store around where you plan to watch. New Orleans is known for being able to find food on every corner.
Navigating the streets can be a challenge during Mardi Gras. They close the streets and there are parade barricades throughout the downtown area. Plan for extra time for any extra activities or reservations you may make that may require a Uber or Lyft.
Travel Advisor
Lisa Helms
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Orleans. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Justin Woodrow Wellar’s guide, Halloween in New Orleans.