As a history teacher, I’ve always been fascinated by cultural celebrations, and Mardi Gras in New Orleans had long been on my bucket list.
This year, I finally made it happen, bringing my wife and two kids along for an unforgettable family experience. Contrary to the common misconception that Mardi Gras is just a wild street party, we discovered a rich, family-friendly side filled with tradition, music, and an incredible sense of community.
If you’re considering taking your family to Mardi Gras, let me take you through our journey and share some tips for making the most of this spectacular event.
Chapter Trail
Day 1: Arriving in the Big Easy
We arrived in New Orleans a few days before Fat Tuesday to soak in the atmosphere and explore the city. We chose to stay in the Garden District, a quieter area with stunning historic homes and easy access to the streetcar. This location gave us a break from the more intense crowds while still keeping us close to the action.
Our first stop was the French Quarter, where we introduced the kids to the lively sounds of street musicians on Royal Street and grabbed our first taste of beignets at Café du Monde. Powdered sugar-covered smiles confirmed that this was a great start to our trip!
Day 2: Learning the History of Mardi Gras
Before diving into the parades, I wanted my family to understand the history behind Mardi Gras. We visited the Mardi Gras World museum, where my kids were amazed by the massive floats under construction. Seeing the intricate details of each float up close gave us a new appreciation for the effort that goes into the celebrations.
In the afternoon, we explored the Preservation Hall for a kid-friendly introduction to jazz, one of New Orleans’ greatest contributions to the world. My son even got to try his hand at a drum session, making it a highlight of the day.
Day 3: Family-Friendly Parades
One of the biggest concerns for families visiting Mardi Gras is finding a suitable parade spot. We opted for St. Charles Avenue, where families gather with ladders and picnic setups. The atmosphere was lively but much more controlled than Bourbon Street.
The Krewe of Iris and Krewe of Tucks were the parades of the day, both offering a colorful spectacle with elaborately decorated floats, marching bands, and the much-anticipated bead throws. My kids caught their fair share of beads and stuffed toys, and their excitement was contagious!
Day 4: Cultural and Culinary Exploration
After all the parade excitement, we dedicated a day to exploring New Orleans’ cultural side. We strolled through the Louisiana Children’s Museum, which was a perfect interactive break for the kids.
For lunch, we tried traditional Cajun and Creole dishes at Commander’s Palace, where the gumbo and shrimp étouffée were absolute standouts. Even my somewhat picky eaters found something to love in the rich flavors of New Orleans cuisine.
Day 5: Fat Tuesday and the Grand Finale
The grand event had finally arrived! We secured a spot on Canal Street early in the morning, where we watched the famous Zulu and Rex parades roll through. The energy was electric, and the sense of camaraderie among strangers was something truly special. People shared beads, cheered for the floats, and danced together in the streets.
Before wrapping up our trip, we took a relaxing evening cruise on the Steamboat Natchez, enjoying the view of the Mississippi River and reflecting on our incredible experience.
Why You Should Take Your Family to Mardi Gras
Many people think of Mardi Gras as an adults-only event, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, Mardi Gras is a festival with deep historical roots, strong community values, and plenty of family-friendly activities that make it an excellent vacation choice for families with kids of all ages.
A Cultural and Educational Experience
Mardi Gras is more than just parades—it’s a living history lesson. From the centuries-old krewes that design and build the magnificent floats to the intricate traditions behind the King Cake, Mardi Gras provides countless opportunities for kids to learn about history, art, and music in a hands-on way. Visiting Mardi Gras World or local museums like the Louisiana State Museum’s Mardi Gras exhibit can give kids a deeper appreciation for the holiday and the city’s rich cultural heritage.
A Safe and Family-Friendly Atmosphere
While Bourbon Street is known for its adult party scene, the majority of Mardi Gras celebrations take place in family-oriented areas.
Streets like St. Charles Avenue and Canal Street offer wide, open spaces where families gather with picnic setups, ladders for kids to sit on, and even designated family parade zones. Many krewes—such as the Krewe of Iris, Krewe of Thoth, and Krewe of Pontchartrain—are known for their family-friendly approach, throwing special toys, beads, and trinkets just for children.
A Chance to Connect as a Family
There’s something magical about standing together, cheering as a float passes by, and catching beads from masked riders. The shared excitement and anticipation make for a bonding experience like no other. Beyond the parades, families can enjoy quality time exploring City Park, taking a steamboat ride on the Mississippi, or indulging in local treats like pralines and jambalaya. The sense of wonder and joy in your children’s eyes makes the trip worthwhile.
A Budget-Friendly Vacation Option
Unlike some other major festivals, Mardi Gras itself is completely free to attend.
Parades, street performances, and live music all come at no cost, making it an accessible option for families looking for a unique and affordable trip. With budget-friendly accommodations in quieter areas like Mid-City or the Garden District, as well as plenty of free activities around town, it’s possible to enjoy Mardi Gras without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
While Bourbon Street may not be the best place for kids, Mardi Gras as a whole is deeply rooted in tradition and family-oriented festivities. With careful planning, choosing the right locations, and balancing the excitement with downtime, Mardi Gras can be an unforgettable trip for families.
If you’re considering bringing your family to Mardi Gras, I say go for it. Just be prepared for high-energy crowds, bring plenty of snacks, and embrace the magic of New Orleans.
Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)
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