Stay on the Mardi Gras parade route
Get ready to 'Laissez les bons temps rouler' at Kimpton Hotel Fontenot, your prime Mardi Gras hotel, and the best place to stay for Mardi Gras revelry in NOLA. We're right on the Mardi Gras parade route and a stone's throw from the heart of the French Quarter's festivities.
Mardi Gras in New Orleans is an explosion of vibrant colors, exhilarating music, and jubilant parades, a true embodiment of the city's spirit. This iconic festival draws visitors from all corners of the world, eager to experience its unique blend of traditions. The streets buzz with the sounds of jazz and zydeco, creating an atmosphere that is unmistakably New Orleans.
Each year, the city's krewes, or parade organizations, outdo themselves with magnificent floats and throws, including the much-coveted beads and doubloons. These parades wind their way through the city, offering a spectacle of creativity and celebration.
For those seeking a family-friendly experience, areas like the Garden District offer a more relaxed atmosphere, away from the French Quarter's high-energy celebrations. Mardi Gras is not just a party; it's a cultural phenomenon, deeply rooted in the history and traditions of New Orleans. Attending Mardi Gras is free, and visitors can expect to collect many beads and other throws from the parades.
Mardi Gras Day is Tuesday, March 4, 2025. Fat Tuesday is the last day of the Carnival season as it always falls the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. The official start of Carnival Season is Twelfth Night, January 5, 2025.