Mardi Gras is More Than Beads, Boobs and Bourbon Street

Ok. I need to set the record straight about Mardi Gras. For New Orleanians, it’s not about wild parties and flashing for beads (seriously, New Orleanians don’t show their private parts on the streets for their teachers, pastors, family members and colleagues to see! That’s for tourists. Duh). New Orleanians know that beads are free and plentiful. Mardi Gras is a season—yes, you heard that right, a whole season of fun, tradition, and community. This year it kicks off on January 6th, the Feast of Epiphany, and lasts until Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. This extended celebration includes weeks of parades, balls, and festivities organized by krewes—community groups that work year-round to plan their events. And trust me, for those of us in New Orleans, it’s about so much more than what you’ve heard.

Dispelling the Boobs and Beads Myth

The French Quarter has rowdy energy, but that’s not where most of the magic happens. The real Mardi Gras fun is in the neighborhoods—Mid-City, Uptown, the West Bank and even beyond the city—where the parades are colorful, creative, and completely family-friendly. It’s a celebration of community, not focused on the exposure of body parts that most people think about when they think about Mardi Gras.

Native New Orleans enjoy Mardi Gras with their families. The season is full of wholesome fun.

A Family Affair

Imagine this: kids perched on ladder seats, waving their arms for beads, while parents set up picnic blankets, share snacks, and cheer for floats. This is Mardi Gras for most locals—a family-friendly, joyful celebration - like a city-wide tailgate party. High school marching bands bring the energy, social clubs add flair, and communities come together in a way that feels like magic. 

Tyneeta (center) and the high school seniors of the Mc Donogh 35 Eaglettes class of '91 in their Mardi Gras parade attire.

The marching bands—an integral part of New Orleans culture—perform in the larger parades, showcasing major talent and dedication. I remember being a member of the Mc Donogh 35 Eaglettes Dance Team and practicing all summer long to “march” in Mardi Gras parades. The night parades were always my favorite. The evening air was soft and I loved the way the glitter of the night lights shone on my shimmery sequin dance costume.There’s no feeling like having your community cheer you on under the bright lights of the big floats and street lamps. Even thought we danced for miles on end, we knew it was a privilege to participate in each parade. It was a whole-family vibe.

Even if you cancel Mardi Gras, we'll find a way to celebrate. Born out of Covid, there’s Yardi Gras. New Orleans is a festive city and the party will always go on.

The Real MG MVPs: The Krewes

Mardi Gras doesn’t just appear out of nowhere; it’s powered by krewes—community groups who spend the entire year planning their parades and events. These krewes create stunning floats, handcraft unique throws, and organize extravagant balls. Membership in a krewe? It’s no small commitment. It involves dues and hours of dedication, but it’s what keeps the tradition alive.

Being a part of a krewe requires an intense time commitment. There are typically meetings and events throughout the year in preparation for Mardi Gras. I’ve spent hours on “coconut duty,” helping family members who were a part of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club customize the prized art work that is the Zulu Coconut. And let’s talk about those royal courts—kings, queens, and maids decked out in fabulous gowns and tuxedos, all celebrating their roles in this historic season. It’s a labor of love, with some folks spending thousands just to make their float-riding dreams come true. Riding a float is on my bucket list for sure!

The Heart of Mardi Gras Season

At its core, Mardi Gras is about joy, resilience, and creativity. It’s a time for people to come together, honor traditions, and keep the spirit of New Orleans alive. Whether it’s catching beads on St. Charles Avenue or dancing with a second-line parade, Mardi Gras is a celebration that truly has something for everyone. It’s a season of love, laughter, and life—New Orleans style.

Have you been to Mardi Gras in New Orleans? What was your experience?