There is never a shortage of things to do in New Orleans with kids, but Mardi Gras takes the (king) cake! If you are looking for family-friendly Mardi Gras events in New Orleans and the surrounding area, we have you covered.
Guide to New Orleans Mardi Gras Events and Camps
It’s time to bust out the green, purple and gold! Mardi Gras time is here, and New Orleans Mom has the full run down on all of the events, Mardi Gras camps and workshops being held in New Orleans and the surrounding areas. Dreaming of sampling all the best king cake? Ready to attend a headpiece making class? Need a Mardi Gras camp to send the kids for the week off of school? Are you a newcomer to Mardi Gras and the city wondering what this is all about? Look no further! The Guide to New Orleans Mardi Gras Events and Camps is here to make your life as a New Orleans mom easier!
Special thanks to the sponsors of the Guide to Kid-Friendly New Orleans Mardi Gras Events and Camps for making this guide possible!
Jambalaya Girl
Jambalaya Girl Jambalaya & King Cake are all you need for kid approved parade food! We’ve got some “Preau Tips” for easy parade food prep from Jambalaya Girl founder and local mom, Kristen Preau. Easy to cook and full of FLAVOR – Jambalaya Girl New Orleans Food Products are proudly made in New Orleans. Thank you for including us in your family meals and community cookouts since 2010. Stock up for Mardi Gras meals made easy. Find Jambalaya Girl’s Jambalaya, Gumbo, Yellow Rice and One-Pot Seasoning mixes in a store near you or order online. Jambalaya & Gumbo are now available at every grocery store in New Orleans. Don’t forget to take photos, we’ve got new swag for our Krewe of Jambalaya Girl Cooking Club members. Send us your “proof of cooking” photo or video for a free signature gift from Jambalaya Girl.
Check out Jambalaya Girl’s Parade Food “Preau Tips.”
Plush Appeal – The Mardi Gras Spot: Mardi Gras and a Whole Lot More
New Orleans is known for its joyful celebrations with Mardi Gras being the ultimate expression of comradery and community. In many ways, Plush Appeal – The Mardi Gras Spot reflects the spirit and resilience of the great Crescent City. While best known for carnival time, Plush Appeal – The Mardi Gras Spot offers Mardi Gras supplies and flair, plus a whole lot more. Its mission is to spread joy and fun for every occasion through clothing, craft items, home décor, game day gear, birthday party supplies, holiday flair and more.
Show this guide at checkout or enter the code “NOLAMom” online for 10% off your same-day purchase except sale or closeout items. Offer ends on Monday, February 20, 2023.
Let les bon temps rouler with Plush Appeal – The Mardi Gras Spot {2812 Toulouse Street} or www.mardigrasspot.com.
Children’s Hospital New Orleans
Children’s Hospital is a 267-bed, non-profit academic pediatric medical center that offers comprehensive healthcare services, including over 40 pediatric specialties, delivered just for children. With more than 600 pediatric providers, Children’s offers a comprehensive array of pediatric healthcare services in Louisiana and the Gulf South. In addition to its main campus located in New Orleans, the hospital operates a network of specialty clinics across Louisiana, including in Covington, Baton Rouge, Alexandria, Lafayette, and Diamondhead, MS. Children’s offers primary care services at 12 convenient locations and remotely via its Virtual Care for Kids program. Children’s is a proud member of LCMC Health, a Louisiana-based, not-for-profit hospital system which also includes New Orleans East Hospital, Touro, University Medical Center New Orleans, West Jefferson Medical Center, and East Jefferson General Hospital. Learn more at chnola.org.
Check out the Mardi Gras event categories included below and jump straight to that section by clicking to see all of the family-friendly Mardi Gras events in and around New Orleans this year!
Mardi Gras Events in New Orleans | Mardi Gras Camps in New Orleans | Mardi Gras Workshops |
Mardi Gras Parades in Greater New Orleans | Alternatives to Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras Events in New Orleans
Mardi Gras might be one of the best parts of living in New Orleans with kids. Even if you’re hesitant to take your children to parades, there are many kid-friendly Mardi Gras events that celebrate the holiday. You can even make a fun day out of driving around to look at the beautifully decorated homes uptown or simply grab a king cake and enjoy it at one of the city’s many parks!
King Cake Hub
When: January 5th and 6th | Various times
Where: 1464 S. Broad Street, New Orleans | 520 Royal Street, New Orleans
January 5th: King Cake Hub & Zony Mash will be holding the first ever King Cake Monarch Pageant on Thursday, January 5th from 9pm – 12am at 3940 Thalia Street in the tap room. At midnight the newly crowned monarch will cut and hand out the first pieces of king cake for the season to their royal subjects. There will be special guests, dance krewes, and Zony Mash will be releasing their 2023 King Cake Stout. Perfect for a parents night out.
January 6th: Come to the opening of the King Cake Hub at their main location at 1464 S. Broad at 8:30am on January 6th. Josh Paxton will be playing carnival favorites, Hey Café will be selling coffee, and Paw Paws Donuts will be serving up some amazing king cake donuts! There will be a second kick off party happening at the pop up location at The Shop Historic New Orleans Collection at 520 Royal Street at 9:30am. DJ Eureka Starfish will providing the entertainment while you can enjoy a variety of king cakes.
King Cake Hub will be open daily from 8:30am until 6:00pm, January 6th to Lundi Gras.
The Friends of St. Alphonsus
When: Sunday, January 8th | 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Where: 1440 Moss Street, New Orleans
The Friends of St. Alphonsus are hosting their annual King Cake Extravaganza on Sunday, January 8th at the beautiful Pitot House on Bayou St. John. Tickets are $30, visit their website for more info.
NOLA Throws Inaugural Kick Off Party
When: Saturday, January 14th | 11:00am – 3:00pm
Where: 2325 Belle Chasse Highway, Gretna
Join NOLA Throws carnival kick off party at their newly expanded store for fun, food, and prizes! There is a free gift for the first 200 people, Lucky Dogs, king cake, and refreshments. They will be having gift certificate raffles at 11:30, 12:30, & 1:30. There will be a Queen’s Toast at noon, make sure not to miss it! Find more info here.
Carnival Time Art Market at Bayou Wine Garden
When: Saturday, January 21st | 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Where: 315 N Rendon Street, New Orleans
Bring the kids (for this event only!) to Bayou Wine Garden for their Carnival Time Art Market. With over 30 vendors all geared towards your costuming and parading needs, you are sure to walk away with some new sparkle for the Mardi Gras season. There will be live music and some lovable doggies up for adoption on top of great food and shopping.
Teens and Adults Sensory Friendly Mardi Gras Celebration
When: Saturday, January 21st | 11:00am – 1:00pm
Where: The Presbytère
Teen and adults with autism and developmental disabilities & their families are invited to the Louisiana State Museum to celebrate carnival in style! During this event, the Presbytère will close to the public to minimize crowds and exhibit noises. Trained educators and volunteers will help lead drop-in art activities and exploration of the exhibition ‘Rex: The 150th Anniversary of the School of Design’. Participants will meet float designers, create their own float flowers, hear carnival music from a brass band, and learn more about the instruments they use. Come create, dance, sing, and celebrate together. This program is free for the whole family, but registration is required. Click here to sign up for this amazing event!
Mardi Gras Market at Port Orleans Brewing
When: Sunday, January 22nd | 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Where: 4124 Tchoupitoulas Street, New Orleans
Head to Port Orleans Brewing Company for their first annual Mardi Gras Market. There will be boiled crawfish, all the new brews, and a multiple vendors to shop from. Checkout Mambo Midge, The Naughty Hippo, Jader Bomb, Lunar Boutiques, Mitzi Wear, JN Creations NOLA, Gulf Coast Crawfish, and more.
King Cake Crawl & Contest
When: Sunday, January 28th | 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Where: 3000 Downs Blvd, Metairie
Lafreniere Park is hosting their second annual King Cake Crawl & Contest on January 28th! Adults are $10, Kids 4-10 are $5, 3& under free. Come out and try different king cakes and then cast your vote for who you think should be the winner!
Garden District Book Shop Mardi Gras Market
When: Sunday, January 28th | 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Where: 2727 Prytania Street Suite 14, New Orleans
The Garden District Book Shop and Susan Schadt Press are teaming up to hold a Mardi Gras market full of story times and activities for all. The market is open to the public and will feature fun for both adults and children alike. There will be three story times from local authors Michelle Dumont, Matt Haines and Madison Webb. Each story time will come with a complementary activity for the kids to enjoy. Michelle Dumont will be bringing in her pet bulldog for all to meet and greet. Matt Haines will lead a King Cake decorating workshop featuring Chef Martha Gilreath of The Chicory House and Nolita King Cakes. Finally, Madison Webb will be bringing costumes for kids to dress up in and coloring pages from her book for them to color. To complete the day, Yoni Goldstein who is the co-author of I Wanna Do That! The Magic of Mardi Gras Marching Krewes will be at The Rink beginning at 12:30 PM with a marching krewe for guests to meet. There will be a make your own Mardi Gras throw activity for kids to enjoy. The Chicory House will be open for guests if they need to take a break to grab a bite, and will have a specialty Mardi-Gras themed cocktail for the adults to enjoy. Click here for the full schedule!
Little Flea Nola – Mardi Gras Edition
When: Sunday, January 28th | 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Where: 1507 Magazine Street, New Orleans
Little Flea Nola heads to Hotel Saint Vincent for a special Mardi Gras market featuring vintage clothing, furniture, and antiques. There will be also be vendors that will be selling vintage Mardi Gras costumes, headpieces, jewelry, and accessories. Come check out other local artists and crafters as well at this free event.
Bayou King Cake Festival
When: Saturday, February 4th | 1:30pm
Where: 402 West 3rd Street, Thibodeaux
Come down and participate in the Krewe of King Cake Children’s Parade or just watch it roll! After the parade, Nonc Nu and the Wild Matous will be entertaining while you sample some of your favorite king cakes from various bakeries. Vote for your favorite to win the Best of the Bayou King Cake Festival! $10 gets you 5 tastings and 1 chance to vote. Check the event to purchase tickets and more info.
Algiers Mardi Gras Festival
When: February 4th | 9:00am
Where: 740 Hebert Street, New Orleans
This family friendly carnival will return to Federal City for their 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Festival. Headlined by James Andrews, Brass-A-Holics, and Amanda Shaw. The mile long parade will begin at 9:00am and feature various marching bands and Mardi Gras Indians. Check their Facebook for more exciting announcements and updates.
Choctaw’s River Parade
When: February 4th | 10:00am – 12:30pm
Where: The Creole Queen | 500 Spanish Plaza
Join the Krewe of Choctaw for this one of a kind event on the river! Boarding begins at 9:30 for a brunch of music, dancing, and delicious food. Meet the Royal Court of Choctaw in full costume and revel in a second line. With the river in the backdrop it is sure to make for a beautiful day. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the gate, they do not include food or drink. Get there early, the more the merrier!
Hot NOLA Author Event
When: February 4th | 1:00pm – 6:00pm
Where: 1133 Hickory Avenue, Harahan
Join VFW 3267 as it hosts the Hot NOLA Author Event. There will be over 50 authors there with their books to sign and discuss with fellow literary lovers! Enjoy food vendors, carnival themed drinks, and a raffle. Get there early to receive a free swag bag, VIP tickets are available here. Get the full list of all the amazing authors you will get to meet and go find your next read, Mardi Gras style!
DSAGNO Mardi Gras Bowling
When: February 5th | 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Where: 6601 Jefferson Highway, Harahan
The Down Syndrome Association of Greater New Orleans is having their Mardi Gras Bowling event at Colonial Lanes. Come on down to enjoy a fun day of bowling with friends! All ages are welcome, so make sure to register your spot here to attend this amazing free event.
Gnarly Gras
When: February 5th | 11:00am – 6:00pm
Where: 1709 Corbin Road, Hammond
Join Gnarly Barley Brewing for their annual Gnarly Gras event! Enjoy local food, music, and of courser new beer releases. Electric Ramble and the Pocket Aces Brass Band will be providing some amazing entertainment.
Barq’s & Becky Fos Signing
When: February 2nd – 9th | Various times
Where: Various locations
What is better than Mardi Gras and Becky Fos?! FREE signed prints of her Barq’s painting celebrating Mardi Gras. Becky Fos will be at YOUR local supermarkets the first week of February to meet her fans and sign your new print! Check her Facebook to find the location nearest to you.
King Cake Party
When: February 8th | 5:30pm
Where: 3600 Chateau Blvd, Kenner
Chateau Golf and Country Club will be hosting the King Cake King himself, Brendon Oldendorf, for the ultimate King Cake Tasting. With a goal of tasting 150 king cakes this season, this will be a one of a kind tasting experience. Bring your local favorite and get $10 off of your ticket! ($20 members, $25 non members)
Adler’s Presents Cristy Cali
When: February 11th | 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Where: 2937 Veterans Blvd, Metairie
Adler’s Jewelers is hosting this rare opportunity to meet native New Orleanian Cristy Cali on February 11th. Come see her newest Mardi Gras and Valentines Day collections, a wider array of her one of a kind designs that you can’t purchase online. Enjoy a slice of king cake and come treat your self!
New Orleans Track Club Mardi Gras 5K
When: Saturday February 11th | 9:00am
Where: Intersection of Veterans & N Causeway, Metairie
Celebrate Carnival season with the 6th Annual The Mardi Gras 5K and Kids’ Half Mile! This is a family friendly run/walk with the race finishing at the free Family Gras Festival. Light refreshments are available for participants post-race. Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase, and concert admission to the headlining music acts is free and open to the public. Following the Family Gras music festival lineup will be the Magical Krewe of Mad Hatter’s parade along the traditional Veterans Memorial Boulevard route. The Mardi Gras 5K is open to all runners and walkers of all speeds. To register or for more information, please CLICK HERE.
Pygmalion Fest
When: Saturday February 11th | 8:00pm
Where: The Sugar Mill | 1021 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans
After the Krewe of Pygmalion rolls, head over to the Sugar Mill for their annual all night party – Pygmalion Fest! Musical acts G-Eazy (who is their Grand Marshal this year), Mannie Fresh, and DJ Kelly Green will be entertaining into the morning hours. VIP includes a premium open bar, catered food by Rizzuto’s Ristorante, and a VIP only entrance. Buy your tickets in advance here.
Shorty Gras
When: Saturday February 11th | 5:00pm
Where: Mardi Gras World | 1380 Port of New Orleans Place, New Orleans
Trombone Shorty is back to host Shorty Gras after the Krewe of Feret rolls uptown! Featuring artists like Flo Rida, Rebirth Brass Band, Cha Wa, Flow Tribe, Kris Royal, and Hot Boy Ronald the music is going to be amazing. They will also be having the Battle of the Bands with some of the best marching bands from across the state. Don’t miss this, get your tickets here!
Jefferson Parish Family Gras
When: February 10th & 11th
Where: Mardi Gras Plaza | 3300 Veterans Blvd, Metairie
Family Gras is a FREE festival that is perfect to bring the whole family to! Enjoy Mardi Gras parades, authentic local cuisine and art, and outdoor concerts by both national artists and Louisiana favorites. Shop the Art Market to see lots of local vendors showcasing art, photography, jewelry. and more . The Kids’ Court has various activities for kids 12 and younger such as face painting, unique hand-wax art, and interactive games. From the Beach Boys to Amanda Shaw, Family Gras is known for having a huge variety of top talent that the entire family can enjoy!
Mardi Gras Tea at Windsor Court
When: February 11th & 12th | 11:00am – 2:00pm
Where: 1300 Gravier Street, New Orleans
The Windsor Court will be having their afternoon tea with a special Mardi Gras twist on February 11th and 12th. Matt Haines, the author of “The Big Book of King Cake” and “The Little Book of King Cake” will be in the lobby selling the books and signing copies. If you’ve never experienced English Tea, this is one to treat yourself to! Reserve your seats here.
NOLA Krewe of West Africa Culture Festival
When: February 11th | Noon – 6:00pm
Where: 11831 N. I-10 Service Road, New Orleans East
Join the Queens of Africa United International Foundation for their annual charitable celebration for the West African culture that lives deep within New Orleans. Come to this FREE event so you can educate, celebrate, dance, enjoy Culture foods, live entertainment, shop with culture vendors, and connect spiritually with ole folks tales and some generational ancestors stories. Reserve your free spot here.
Mardi Gras Market at Old Road Coffee
When: February 11th | 9:00am – 1:00pm
Where: 2024 Bayou Road, New Orleans
This month’s market will have 20+ vendors that will be featuring Mardi Gras art, costumes, jewelry, accessories, and more. Father Ron and Friends will begin performing at 11am, so stop by for a coffee and some treasures before you head to parades.
90’s Mardi Gras Bash
When: February 17th | 9:00pm til
Where: Loft 18 Metairie | 3128 Metairie Road
Loft 18 is holding their 90’s Mardi Gras Bash, so all my older millennials dig in the back of your closet and come out for a good time! Big In The 90s will be playing all of our favorite songs from the best decade there was. You can catch a game of golf, enjoy some libations and get ready to pump up the jam at this event!
Beads & Bubbly: A Rooftop Mardi Gras Party
When: February 17th | 2:00pm – 6:00pm
Where: 550 Baronne Street, New Orleans
Get in the spirit before Krewe of Hermes, d’Etat, and Morpheus at Dreamboat located on the 13th floor rooftop of the Virgin Hotels. Just steps away from the parade route, this special event will pack in all the perks! Your ticket will include craft cocktails at an open bar, light bites, live musical entertainment, and entertainment from Trixie Minx Productions. Overnight valet parking pass is included. Dress festive, the best dressed will win a one night stay at the hotel. Grab your tickets here.
37th Annual Mardi Gras Mask Market
When: February 17th – 20th | 9:00am – 4:00pm
Where: Dutch Alley, New Orleans
With it’s long history, mask makers from all over converge on Dutch Alley to display their handmade Mardi Gras masks, costumes, headdresses, and necessities. Many of these incredible mask makers have over 20+ years experience! With masks priced from $8 to $800, there is something for everyone. Enjoy some nice weather and trying on masks for the day down Decatur!
Bacchus Bash 2023
When: February 19th | 12:00pm ’til
Where: 310 Andrew Higgins, New Orleans
Bacchus Bash is back for its 38th annual celebration through the warehouse district. This FREE event is the best 14 hour block party you will ever go to. Bag of Donuts, Mannie Fresh, Bucktown Allstars, The Topcats, Category 6, DJ Taf, and DJ Wixx will all be performing in this one epic event. Looking to enjoy the day VIP? Tickets are just $100 and include access to the outdoor grandstand, a premium open bar and a private indoor area with bathrooms. Visit The Metro Nola or Generations Hall to purchase.
Mardi Gras Children’s Day
When: February 19th | 11:00am – 2:00pm
Where: Lake Charles Civic Center | 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles
This fun, free event will take place in Exhibition Hall prior to the Children’s Day Parade. Children’s Day will include exhibitions of performing arts, technology and science, safety and health, and arts and crafts—all interactive and hands-on! Typical activities for Children’s Day include an education station, making Mardi Gras arts and crafts while learning about the traditions and history of the carnival season and more. Groups present cultural and historic experiences of Mardi Gras. Children have the opportunity to take home free crafts from vendors and sponsors. Entertainment includes colorful characters such as jesters, dance groups, and promenading pageant queens. Each child is served traditional king cake and takes home a bag of souvenirs.
Children’s Museum of St. Tammany
When: February 20th | Check in 9:30am – 10:30am | Lineup 11:30am – 12:30pm | Parade at 12:00pm
Where: 21404 Koop Drive, Mandeville
The Children’s Museum of St. Tammany is holding their Kids Krewe Mardi Gras Wagon Parade. Kids 12 and under can register their own decorated wagon and take part of the parade, or just come out and enjoy the fun. There will be a named King and Queen, so if you’re not already a member this is the perfect time. Registration must be completed by Monday, February 13th at 3pm. Click here for all the information!
Riverwalk’s 37th Annual Lundi Gras Celebration
When: February 20th | 12:00pm – 6:30pm
Where: Spanish Plaza
This free and family friendly event kicks off Lundi Gras with a celebration in Spanish Plaza. Musical acts like Zydeco Band Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers, GoGo Brass Funk Band Brass-A-Holics, and Funk Rock Band Flow Tribe will be performing all day and will be followed by a giant fireworks display over the river before uptown parades roll. Enjoy local food and drink vendors and do some shopping from local artists. The event culminates with the arrival of Rex, the King of Carnival
Lundi Gras Bash at Southport Hall
When: February 20th | 8:00pm
Where: 200 Monticello Ave, Jefferson
Southport Hall is ringing in Fat Tuesday with their Lundi Gras Bash. Head over there after parades to dance the night away to DJ Natas and DJ Roofie. Purchase tickets online in advance for only $10 here.
Rivertown Lundi Gras Bash
When: February 20th | 11:00am – 2:30pm
Where: Kenner’s Rivertown
Join The Topcats in a fun filled day celebrating Lundi Gras in Kenner’s Rivertown. There will be a second line parade and toasts as both King Zulu and King Argus meet with their courts. This is a great event and a chance for the kids to see carnival royalty!
Mardi Gras on the Huey
When: February 21st | 11:00am – 6:00pm
Where: 435 Huey P Long Drive, Gretna
Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant will be hosting Mardi Gras on the Huey with hot boiled crawfish and a full menu for Mardi Gras Day! This is the perfect option for anyone not looking to venture out to parades but are looking for some family fun and good food on the Westbank.
Mardi Gras Camps in New Orleans
So the kids are home from school for Mardi Gras and you’ve got to work. We know that finding a Mardi Gras camp can be challenging for New Orleans families. Below are Mardi Gras camps that are offering options during the 2023 Carnival season.
Junction Place
When: February 22nd, 23rd, & 24th
Where: 5620 Crawford Street, Harahan
The All Sports Camp is the perfect camp for boys and girls ages 5-12 who want to get moving during the Mardi Gras holiday! Available 02/22, 2/23, 02/24 from 9:00am – 3:00pm. Price varies based on days chosen. Check the sign-up page for more info.
Kidsports
When: February 17th, 20th, 22nd, 23rd, & 24th
Where: 1200 South Clearview Parkway, Elmwood / Harahan
Kidsports will be holding their day camp on Friday, February 17th and February 20th – 24th (closed Mardi Gras Day). There will be crafts, bounce houses, and various fun filled activities planned each day. Pricing is $50 per day for pre-registered, $55 for walk ins and $45 for all Ochsner employees. Before and after care is available for an extra fee. Sign up now!
Lolo’s Youth Yoga
When: February 17th, 22nd, 23rd, & 24th
Where: 6117 Magazine Street, New Orleans
Check out Lolo’s for days full of Mardi Gras-inspired art, yoga, games and mindfulness. Let your kids get their creative juices flowing and find their chill at Lolo’s! Two sessions for ages 5-7 and 8+, don’t wait to sign up for this fun and unique camp.
JPRD Mardi Gras Camp
When: February 22nd, 23rd, & 24th
Where: Cleary Playground Gym | 3700 Civic Street, Metairie
Jefferson Parish Parks & Recreation will be holding their Mardi Gras camp in the Cleary Playground Gym after Fat Tuesday. Campers will enjoy games, crafts, sport, outdoor/indoor activities, movies, special events, and so much more at this fun camp! Click to register for more information.
Mandeville Sports Complex
When: February 20th, 22nd, 23rd, & 24th
Where: 23052 Highway 1088, Mandeville
Mandeville Sports Complex will be hosting their Mardi Gras camp February 20th and February 22nd – 24th from 7:00am until 3:00pm. Aftercare is available. Visit their website for more information.
Louisiana Children’s Museum
When: February 22nd, 23rd, & 24th
Where: 15 Henry Thomas Drive, New Orleans
Louisiana Children’s Museum is holding their “Celebrate New Orleans” Mardi Gras camp for children ages 4-8. They will be learning about New Orleans architecture, music, artists, and more. They will explore Creole cottages, discover musical instruments, and masterpieces in this one-of-a-kind hands-on camp experience! In addition, the campers will be busy learning and exploring in nature, enhancing their literacy experiences, designing amazing collaborative art pieces, and learning about the importance of sustainability. It sounds pretty awesome, so do no wait to register! $65 for members, $75 non-members. Registration opens up January 9th, click here to get signed up.
Art Time
When: February 23rd & 24th
Where: 705 Asbury Drive, Mandeville
Offering festive and fun art classes February 23rd and 24th for ages 4 to teenagers. Visit their website for more information, they offer tons of great camps coming up! Registration will open January 23rd, click here to register.
Kidstrong Mardi Gras Camp
When: February 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, & 24th
Where: 1200 W Causeway Approach STE 16, Mandeville
Kid Strong will be holding their camp the entire week of Mardi Gras for kids ages 5-9 years old. Membership is not required for their special sessions, and the perfect time to check out what they’re all about! Call (985) 951-4280 or email [email protected]
Ninja Obstacle Lifting Academy
When: February 17th through 24th
Where: 3511 River Road Suite C, Jefferson
Ninja Obstacle Lifting Academy will be hosting their school break classes for either half (9am-12pm or 12pm-3pm) or full days (9am-3pm) during the Mardi Gras holiday for ages 6-12. Spots are limited and first come first serve. Email [email protected] for more info or check out their website.
Franco’s Mardi Gras Camp
When: February 20th, 22nd, 23rd, and 24th
Where: 100 Bon Temps Roule, Mandeville
Bring the kids to Franco’s Mandeville for a full day of play and fun for their Mardi Gras Camp. Available from 8am – 5:30pm for ages 5 to 13. Click here for more information.
Wildair Workshop Creative Arts Camp
When: February 21st – February 25th | 9:00am – 5:00pm
Where: Munholland Methodist Church | 1201 Metairie Road, Metairie
“Let the creative times roll” at camp this Mardi Gras break! Campers will have the opportunity to interact with the arts during one of the most exciting times in our city. We know that our city has such a rich and vibrant cultural arts history. We want to help our campers learn and grow by celebrating that history through multi-faceted art lessons and activities taught by local artists and educators. This camp is designed for students in grades 2nd through 8th. Visual Arts: Nola architecture painting, printmaking, and costume design Theatre: acting, miming, and stage/set design Music: singing, playing instruments, and exploring Nola’s music history.
Culinary Kids
When: February 22nd – February 24th | 9:00am – 3:00pm
Where: 915 Marigny Avenue, Mandeville
Culinary Kids will be having their deliciously fun Mardi Gras Camp after Fat Tuesday this year. Kids ages 5 to 12 learn to cook their own breakfast, lunch, drinks, and dessert each day (no packing a lunch, yay!) They will also get to enjoy gardening, science experiments, games, and lots of fun. Extended care is available and pre registration is required. Click here to sign up.
Vamonos
When: February 17th, 22nd – February 24th | 8:00am – 2:00pm (extended care available)
Where: 600 Eleanore Street | St. Paul’s United Church
Vamonos provides a Spanish Language Program through fun and engaging classes and camps. Kids ages 5-10 can participate in this fun 5 day camp while enjoying Mardi Gras crafts, games, and activities – snacks are also provided. There are also Junior Counselor spots available for the older kids looking to help out for the break. Register here by February 1st to save 10% with Early Bird Savings.
New Orleans Jesters Mardi Gras Camp
When: February 22nd – February 24th | 9:00am – 12:00pm
Where: Carrollton at the Fly | 127-139 East Drive, New Orleans
The New Orleans Jesters will kick off spring with their Mardi Gras camp thanks to Raising Cane’s! Children of all skill levels, ages 8-14, are invited to come out and experience high level coaching by the coaches from the Jesters. Each day campers will learn foot skills, technical drills, small sided games, and coached scrimmages. Register here for your spot!
Greater New Orleans Mardi Gras Workshops
If your family is looking for a way to enjoy Mardi Gras outside of parades, below are some fun ideas for Mardi Gras projects and other themed fun in New Orleans!
Bayou Saint Cake Online King Cake Making Class
When: Debuts January 6th
Where: Online (In Person Class TBA)
Bayou Saint Cake is offering a delicious offer this Mardi Gras season! For $35 you will get a digital download with a full recipe and videos on how to make the perfect king cake. King cake is notoriously hard to make, and she has been developing recipes for years. Click here to be your own next favorite baker!
Louisiana Children’s Museum
When: January 7th 9:30am – 3:00pm
Where: 15 Henry Thomas Drive, New Orleans | The Atrium
Join the Louisiana Children’s Museum on January 7th to make a fun “Mardi Gras Throws Project” in the Atrium. Bring your Mom and dem!
A Touch of NOLA Candle Co. Sip & Pour Candle Class: Mardi Gras Edition
When: January 21st 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Where: 2074 Woodmere Blvd, Harvey
Come learn how to make your own candle in this fun and good vibes class! Mix your own signature scent and create a 12.5 oz, two wick candle to bring home. Light food and refreshments will be served. This event is BYOB for 21+. Sign up to reserve your spot.
Ellen Macomber
When: January 23rd, 25th, 27th, 28th, 29th, & 30th
February 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 8th, & 16th
Where: 727 Camp Street, New Orleans
This Mardi Gras Season join Ellen Macomber for the ultimate costuming experience at the Martine Chaisson Gallery. The Headdress Workshop Series will be held in the gallery amongst Ellen Macomber’s amazing Wearable Art Exhibit. Pick the best time that works, go alone, with friends, or book a private party! If interested in hosting a private workshop please email for more information.
Elliot Club Mardi Gras Headpiece Workshops at Music Box Village
When: January 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th, & February 4th, 5th | 12pm – 2:30pm (1pm – 3pm 2/4)
Where: 4557 N Rampart Street, New Orleans
Art Camp 504 is hosting their first Elliot Club Mardi Gras Headpiece workshop for three consecutive weekends this carnival season. Students will work along side artists to create their own special costume from the base up. All supplies are included (feathers, fringe, sequins, lights!) and parents are welcome to register to join their kids and make their own. The workshop is held in the Music Box warehouse, and there will be time to play and explore when class is over. Space is limited, sign up here.
Mardi Gras Craft Social at Miel Brewery
When: January 26th | 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Where: 405 6th Street, New Orleans
Megan Jewel Designs is hosting a BYOC (bring your own craft) Mardi Gras Social at Miel Brewery. Bring your costume, headpiece, or whatever you are working on to mingle with fellow craft lovers alike. Hatch + Harvest will be setup for food, and this event is kid AND pet friendly. RSVP here so that the hostess can get a headcount.
Mom’s Social: Mardi Gras Headpiece
When: February 2nd | 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Where: 8118 Oak Street, New Orleans
Join The Village and Flower Fete for a Mom’s social to make your own fun and festive Mardi Gras headpiece at Oak Wine Bar. $100 includes all of your materials, help making your headpiece, and some light bites to eat. Check out the event here to reserve your spot.
Mardi Gras Cocktail Making Class
When: February 7th | 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Where: 100 Rue Iberville, New Orleans
Observatory Eleven’s award winning bartender Oliver Sovol is teaching an intimate craft cocktail making class. Over the course of an hour you will not only learn how to make 3 different signature drinks, but also tips and tricks from Oliver on how to make your own bitters and syrups from scratch. When it is over enjoy a snake and take in the views from the eleventh floor. Tickets just $40, make sure to reserve your spot here.
Mardi Gras Escape Room
When: February 11th – all day
Where: 2751 Manhattan Blvd, Harvey
Can you make the escape in time to get to the parade? Come to the Jefferson Parish Regional Library on February 11th and join in an interactive escape room. Hunt for clues and solve puzzles to make it out in time to celebrate. Advanced registration is required, please call (504) 364-3664
Area Mardi Gras Parades!
There are dozens of Mardi Gras parades in and around New Orleans. For your convenience, we have separated the 2023 Mardi Gras parade schedules into their geographical locations. Almost all of these parades are kid-friendly!
2023 New Orleans Mardi Gras Parade Schedule
2023 Metairie Mardi Gras Parade Schedule
2023 Northshore Mardi Gras Parade Schedule
2023 Houma and Outlying Areas Mardi Gras Parade Schedule
Traveling for Mardi Gras
Would your family rather pass on the parades? Are you looking for something DIFFERENT to do this Mardi Gras season? Check out all of these great family friendly destinations that would make for the perfect getaway for the week! If you are looking for trips within driving distance of New Orleans, you can make it happen at the last minute!
