11 Best Mardi Gras Trips Beyond New Orleans With Parades Kids Can Enjoy
Mardi Gras is a joyful celebration known for its parades, beads, and lively street parties. While New Orleans may be the first place that comes to mind, there are many other cities that host incredible Mardi Gras festivities. From parades to family-friendly events, these destinations are perfect for children and adults alike. So, if you’re looking for a new Mardi Gras adventure, these cities have a lot to offer.
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Mobile, Alabama
Mobile, Alabama, is known as the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the United States, with celebrations dating back to 1703. The parades here are lively and full of excitement, with plenty of colorful floats and family-friendly activities. The Children’s Mardi Gras Parade is a must-see, offering a fun and engaging experience for the whole family. With a variety of events throughout the season, Mobile is a great choice for families looking for a classic Mardi Gras experience.
The parades in Mobile are known for their historical significance and lively atmosphere. Kids will enjoy catching beads and trinkets from the floats as they march through the streets. Mobile’s Mardi Gras is a community-centered event, with lots of activities for younger audiences. Families can enjoy everything from carnival rides to face painting, making it a memorable experience.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Baton Rouge offers a fantastic Mardi Gras experience that is perfect for families with children. The city features a variety of parades, including the famous Spanish Town Parade, which is known for its colorful costumes and fun floats. The family-friendly atmosphere is one of the highlights, making it an excellent choice for those who want to experience Mardi Gras away from the crowds of New Orleans. Baton Rouge’s Mardi Gras is a great blend of tradition and local charm.
Kids can enjoy the many activities, such as attending the Children’s Mardi Gras Ball or watching the parades, where they can interact with performers and catch throws. The event includes music, food, and games, creating a full Mardi Gras experience for the whole family. Baton Rouge is an excellent alternative for families who want to explore Louisiana’s Mardi Gras culture in a relaxed environment. The celebration is exciting without being overwhelming for young children.
Lafayette, Louisiana
Lafayette is another Louisiana city with a vibrant Mardi Gras celebration that is welcoming to families. Known for its lively parades and community spirit, Lafayette’s Mardi Gras is a great option for kids who love fun, colorful events. One of the highlights of Lafayette’s celebration is the King Cake Festival, where families can enjoy delicious treats while watching the parades. The city’s Mardi Gras celebration is full of tradition and fun for people of all ages.
Lafayette’s Mardi Gras parades feature unique floats and costumes, and kids will love the interactive nature of the event. Families can join in the fun by attending the Cajun Country Mardi Gras Parade, which is a highlight for both locals and visitors. The festival atmosphere in Lafayette is friendly and relaxed, making it ideal for families with younger children. Kids will enjoy the parades, food, and the lively music, all while soaking in the culture.
Galveston, Texas
Galveston, Texas, hosts a vibrant Mardi Gras celebration right on the Gulf Coast, offering something special for kids and families. The island city’s Mardi Gras includes a series of parades, parties, and events, with kid-friendly activities happening throughout the week. One of the best parts of Galveston’s Mardi Gras is the Kids Parade, which features fun floats and interactive elements for young children. The event also includes a carnival with rides, games, and family entertainment.
The colorful parades in Galveston are packed with energy, making it a great spot for kids who love to watch floats pass by and catch beads. In addition to the parades, Galveston’s Mardi Gras offers family-friendly entertainment, including live music and delicious food. The event’s festive atmosphere is perfect for those looking for a fun-filled experience by the beach. Galveston’s Mardi Gras is an excellent alternative for families who want a more relaxed, coastal setting to enjoy the festivities.
St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis may not be in Louisiana, but its Mardi Gras celebration is full of fun for families. The event includes a grand parade with vibrant floats, music, and plenty of entertainment for kids. One of the highlights of St. Louis’ Mardi Gras is the Family Fun Day, which features kid-friendly games and activities. The city also hosts a pet parade, making it a unique experience for families with children and pets alike.
The parades in St. Louis are full of color and excitement, with plenty of opportunities for kids to interact with performers and collect beads. Families will enjoy the festive atmosphere, which is much more relaxed compared to some of the larger cities. St. Louis also offers special Mardi Gras events just for kids, such as arts and crafts stations. It’s a great destination for families who want to enjoy a lively parade without the large crowds.
San Diego, California
San Diego is a fantastic place to experience Mardi Gras with your family, offering parades and events that cater to all ages. The city hosts a Mardi Gras Parade in the Gaslamp Quarter, where families can watch floats, street performers, and dancers. One of the best parts of San Diego’s Mardi Gras is the family-friendly atmosphere, where everyone is encouraged to join the festivities. The event features entertainment for kids, including carnival games and face painting.
In addition to the lively parades, families can enjoy the Mardi Gras-themed street parties, which include food trucks and live music. The event is perfect for families looking for a west coast version of Mardi Gras with a laid-back vibe. Kids can enjoy collecting beads and watching fun performances along the parade route. San Diego’s Mardi Gras is a great way for families to experience the spirit of the celebration in a welcoming environment.
Lake Charles, Louisiana
Lake Charles offers a wonderful Mardi Gras experience for families, with a focus on traditional parades and cultural activities. The city’s Mardi Gras festivities are centered around family fun, including the Children’s Parade, which features floats decorated just for kids. One of the highlights of the event is the Mardi Gras Ball, where families can enjoy music, dancing, and local food. Lake Charles’ celebration is a great way for families to immerse themselves in Louisiana’s Mardi Gras traditions.
Lake Charles is known for its friendly, small-town atmosphere, making it a great option for families who want to avoid the crowds in New Orleans. The city’s Mardi Gras parades are family-friendly, with plenty of opportunities for kids to enjoy the floats and catch beads. Kids will love the interactive elements, such as games and performances designed just for them. The city’s Mardi Gras offers a balanced mix of parades, cultural activities, and local traditions.
Pensacola, Florida
Pensacola, Florida, hosts a Mardi Gras celebration that offers parades, food, and fun for the entire family. The city’s Mardi Gras festivities are centered around a series of parades, including a special Children’s Parade. Kids can enjoy watching colorful floats and performers as they make their way through downtown Pensacola. The event also features a family-friendly atmosphere with games, face painting, and live music.
Pensacola’s Mardi Gras is a wonderful way for families to experience a Gulf Coast version of the celebration. In addition to the parades, families can enjoy the Mardi Gras Bash, which includes carnival rides and a chance to meet local characters. The relaxed setting makes it an ideal destination for families with younger children. Pensacola’s Mardi Gras celebration provides a fun, welcoming environment for kids to enjoy the festivities.
Lafayette, Indiana
Lafayette, Indiana, offers a Mardi Gras celebration that is both family-friendly and fun. The city hosts a parade with festive floats, live bands, and plenty of entertainment for children. One of the highlights of Lafayette’s Mardi Gras is the family-friendly atmosphere, where kids can enjoy activities like face painting and arts and crafts. The celebration also includes a special Mardi Gras market, offering food and souvenirs for the whole family.
The parades in Lafayette are fun and colorful, with plenty of interactive elements for children to enjoy. Families can enjoy a variety of kid-focused activities throughout the day, making it an excellent choice for families who want a relaxed Mardi Gras experience. The local community embraces the celebration, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Lafayette’s Mardi Gras offers a fun and accessible way to enjoy the festivities in a family-oriented environment.
Shreveport, Louisiana
Shreveport, Louisiana, offers a Mardi Gras celebration that is fun and welcoming for families. The Krewe of Gemini Parade is one of the biggest events, featuring impressive floats, marching bands, and performers. Kids will enjoy the festive atmosphere, which includes a variety of kid-focused activities like games and rides. Shreveport’s Mardi Gras provides a more laid-back environment, making it perfect for families with young children.
The city’s Mardi Gras celebration is full of community spirit, and families can enjoy everything from parades to music and dancing. The Krewe of Gemini Parade is especially exciting for children, with lots of colorful floats and interactive elements. Shreveport’s Mardi Gras is an excellent choice for families who want to experience the fun of the celebration without the overwhelming crowds. It’s a great way to enjoy Mardi Gras in a more intimate setting.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is home to one of the most unique Mardi Gras celebrations outside of Louisiana. The city’s event includes a family-friendly parade, complete with floats, dancers, and musicians. Kids will enjoy watching the floats pass by and collecting beads and other trinkets. Santa Fe’s Mardi Gras is full of cultural experiences, offering a mix of Southwestern traditions and Mardi Gras festivities.
In addition to the parade, families can enjoy a variety of fun activities, including face painting, crafts, and performances. Santa Fe’s Mardi Gras is known for its colorful costumes and vibrant atmosphere. The event is perfect for families who want to experience Mardi Gras in a different cultural setting. The city’s unique celebration is sure to leave lasting memories for families of all ages.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.