7 Of The Most Interesting Mardi Gras Parades In Louisiana To Put On Your Calendar This Year

Mardi Gras isn’t just for humans! Let your furry friends get in on the action at this family-friendly parade in which you can register your pet to compete in fun categories like "Best Dressed," "Best Float," and "Pet/Owner Lookalike." The parade will begin at noon on February 24th at the Old Reeves Marine by CenturyLink Center, which is located at 2000 Reeves Marine Center, Bossier City, LA 71122.

Put on your best pink outfit and head over to Baton Rouge for an incredible party unlike any other. Established in 1981, this colorful parade is known for its festive floats and pink flamingos that adorn the lawns along the route and decorate the floats. The parade kicks off at noon on March 2nd and you can find a map of the parade route here.

In this unique Lake Charles parade, local business owners and social organizations take to the streets atop decorated floats. The parade starts at the Lake Charles Civic Center and heads down Ryan Street before ending on Sale Road. The parade takes place on March 1st at 7 p.m.

Established in 1984, the Krewe of Janus gets bigger and better every year, drawing in crowds of over 150,000 people. With more than 50 floats and dozens of marching bands providing a boisterous soundtrack to the festivities, this is a family-friendly event that everyone will enjoy. The Krewe of Janus Children’s Parade kicks off at 10 a.m. on February 16th and the Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade begins at 6 p.m. Both start at 1118 Natchitoches Street and then head down Trenton before turning on Louisville Avenue and ending at Oliver Road.

The Parada of the Krewe of Carnivale en Rio is one of the most exciting Mardi Gras parades in Acadiana. Known for its spectacular floats, dazzling lights, and talented dancers decked out in LED lights, the whole family will enjoy the fiesta. The signature throw are custom maracas, so try to get your hands on one as a souvenir. The parade takes place at 6:30 p.m. on February 23rd. It starts at Pontiac Point in Layayette and ends at Cajun Field.

The Krewe of Highland kicks off at 2 p.m. on March 3rd, and you won’t want to miss it. Known for the unpredictable throws - like rubber chickens, Ramen noodles, and even hot dogs - you never know what’s going to happen at this unique parade!

This festive weekend-long event on March 2nd and 3rd should not be missed! The party beings at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday with live music by Lil’Nate & The Zydeco Big Timers and other zydeco bands over at the Yambilee Arena Building. On Sunday, the parade kicks off at 12 p.m. and will be followed by a chicken run at 2 p.m., as well as more live music from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.