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51. Attend a kid-friendly parade
Mardi Gras isn’t just for adults—many parades are specifically designed with families in mind. These kid-friendly parades often feature fun floats, friendly characters, and plenty of beads and candy to keep children entertained.
52. Make Mardi Gras crafts with children
Engage your kids in festive fun by creating Mardi Gras crafts together. You can make masks, crowns, or colorful decorations using simple materials like glitter, feathers, and beads. It’s a great way to introduce the holiday’s spirit.
53. Bake mini king cakes as a family activity
Baking is a wonderful family bonding activity. Get creative by baking mini king cakes with your children. Decorate them with vibrant Mardi Gras-colored icing and sprinkles, and don’t forget to hide the little baby inside!
54. Watch animated movies about New Orleans culture
Introduce your children to the magic of New Orleans and Mardi Gras by watching animated movies that explore the city’s culture and traditions. Films like The Princess and the Frog are both fun and educational.
55. Create Mardi Gras masks with your kids
Masks are a huge part of Mardi Gras tradition, and making them is a perfect family activity. Let the kids design their own masks using glitter, feathers, and colorful paints for a unique and personal touch.
56. Host a Mardi Gras scavenger hunt at home
Create a Mardi Gras scavenger hunt with clues related to the holiday’s traditions. Hide Mardi Gras-themed items like beads, masks, and coins around the house for the kids to find. It’s a fun and engaging way to teach them about Mardi Gras.
57. Decorate bicycles for a neighborhood parade
Get the kids involved by decorating bicycles for a neighborhood parade. Add beads, feathers, and colorful streamers to their bikes, and let them join in the festivities as they ride proudly through the streets.
58. Set up a face-painting station
Face painting is always a hit with kids. Set up a station with Mardi Gras-inspired designs such as masks, flowers, and animals, using safe face paints for hours of festive fun.
59. Read children’s books about Mardi Gras traditions
Introduce your little ones to Mardi Gras through storytelling. Look for children’s books that highlight the history, costumes, and traditions of the festival to give them a deeper understanding of the holiday.
60. Teach your kids a New Orleans-inspired dance
Teach your children a New Orleans-style dance to get everyone in the spirit of the celebration. Whether it’s the jazz steps or a fun Mardi Gras shuffle, dancing together is a great way to enjoy the rhythm of the holiday.
61. Listen to classic jazz music
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and no Mardi Gras celebration is complete without it. Immerse yourself in the sounds of legends like Louis Armstrong or contemporary brass bands to feel the spirit of the season.
62. Attend a live jazz performance
Experience the magic of New Orleans jazz live! There are countless venues, from small bars to grand concert halls, where you can enjoy fantastic performances by local musicians.
63. Learn to play a New Orleans-style rhythm on drums
Why just listen when you can join in? Grab a set of drums and learn some traditional New Orleans rhythms that bring Mardi Gras to life. It’s a fun and immersive experience for anyone who loves music.
64. Sing along to Mardi Gras anthems
Mardi Gras is full of catchy anthems and party songs. From When the Saints Go Marching In to Mardi Gras Mambo, sing along to these lively tunes that capture the essence of New Orleans.
65. Create a playlist of Mardi Gras-themed songs
Create a playlist that gets you in the Mardi Gras spirit. Include jazz classics, party anthems, and some local favorites that celebrate the fun, lively energy of this season.
66. Dance to brass band music at a local venue
Brass band music is synonymous with Mardi Gras. Find a local venue with live brass band performances and let yourself be swept away by the energetic beats. It’s a great way to join in the local culture.
67. Watch a live-streamed parade if you can’t attend
Can’t make it to New Orleans? Watch one of the many live-streamed Mardi Gras parades and enjoy the excitement from the comfort of your home. The parades are often broadcasted online so you can see all the floats and festivities.
68. Explore local street performers in the French Quarter
The French Quarter is full of street performers showcasing everything from jazz to magic tricks. Stop and enjoy the free entertainment as you walk around, capturing the essence of the city.
69. Visit Preservation Hall for a jazz session
Preservation Hall is a legendary spot in New Orleans for jazz lovers. Attend a session at this iconic venue to experience some of the best live jazz music the city has to offer.
70. Take a beginner’s dance class inspired by New Orleans music
Get your body moving by taking a dance class focused on New Orleans-style rhythms, like the second-line dance. It’s a great way to get active and learn about the local culture through movement.
71. Go on a swamp tour near New Orleans
Venture beyond the city to explore the lush and mysterious swamps surrounding New Orleans. On a guided swamp tour, you’ll encounter local wildlife and learn about the region’s unique ecosystem.
72. Explore City Park and its botanical gardens
City Park is an urban oasis in New Orleans. Stroll through the park’s botanical gardens, admire the century-old oak trees, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
73. Walk along the Mississippi Riverfront
Take a scenic walk along the Mississippi Riverfront and enjoy the breathtaking views of the river. This is a great way to experience the beauty of the area at your own pace.
74. Take a riverboat cruise with a Mardi Gras theme
Hop aboard a riverboat for a Mardi Gras-themed cruise. Experience the charm of the Mississippi River while celebrating the holiday with a festive atmosphere.
75. Explore Bourbon Street during the day
Bourbon Street is known for its nightlife, but it’s also worth a visit during the day. Explore its historic charm, colorful architecture, and vibrant shops before the crowds arrive.
76. Ride a streetcar to see festive decorations
Take a ride on one of New Orleans’ famous streetcars and enjoy the festive decorations along the route. It’s a fun and relaxing way to see the city’s Mardi Gras spirit in full swing.
77. Go paddle boating in a nearby lake
If you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor activity, go paddle boating on one of New Orleans’ serene lakes. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the city.
78. Take a bike tour of Mardi Gras landmarks
Rent a bike and explore New Orleans’ Mardi Gras landmarks on a guided bike tour. Learn about the city’s history, krewes, and traditions while seeing the most iconic locations.
79. Visit Audubon Park for a peaceful stroll
Audubon Park is another lovely spot to enjoy a peaceful walk away from the hustle and bustle. The park features lush green spaces and a beautiful lagoon, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
80. Discover hidden gems in New Orleans neighborhoods
Beyond the well-known tourist spots, New Orleans is filled with hidden gems waiting to be explored. Visit charming neighborhoods, quiet courtyards, and local cafés for a more intimate experience of the city.
81. Buy a handmade Mardi Gras mask
One of the most iconic Mardi Gras souvenirs is a handmade mask. Purchase a beautiful, hand-crafted mask from a local artist to remember your experience.
82. Purchase a unique piece of local art
New Orleans is home to many talented artists. Support local creators by purchasing a one-of-a-kind piece of art that captures the spirit of the city and your Mardi Gras memories.
83. Collect Mardi Gras-themed ornaments
Add a touch of Mardi Gras to your home by collecting unique ornaments. You can find beautiful decorations inspired by the colors, costumes, and themes of the celebration.
84. Shop for colorful beads at a market
Beads are one of the most recognizable symbols of Mardi Gras. Visit a local market to purchase colorful beads, whether you’re adding to your collection or taking home a souvenir.
85. Support local vendors selling festival merchandise
Many local vendors offer one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras merchandise. Shop for t-shirts, masks, costumes, and accessories to support local businesses and take home a special keepsake.
86. Find a one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras costume accessory
Searching for a unique Mardi Gras costume accessory? Local shops in the French Quarter are filled with vibrant, creative items to complete your festive look.
87. Purchase a keepsake from a Mardi Gras museum
Don’t forget to visit one of the Mardi Gras museums and pick up a keepsake. From traditional items to historical memorabilia, these souvenirs make great reminders of your celebration.
88. Pick up a cookbook featuring New Orleans recipes
Bring the flavors of New Orleans home by purchasing a cookbook full of delicious recipes from the region. You can recreate dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and king cake anytime.
89. Bring home a souvenir T-shirt or mug
Souvenir t-shirts and mugs are a fun and practical way to remember your Mardi Gras adventure. Find one with a vibrant design that celebrates the festival’s iconic elements.
90. Collect postcards with vibrant Mardi Gras designs
Postcards are a great way to capture the essence of Mardi Gras. Pick up a few featuring colorful designs, iconic images, or artwork celebrating the holiday.
91. Volunteer to help clean up after a parade
Mardi Gras celebrations generate a lot of excitement, but also a lot of waste. Volunteer to help clean up after a parade to give back to the community and keep the city beautiful.
92. Donate to a local Mardi Gras krewe or community project
Support the Mardi Gras community by donating to a local krewe or a charity project that helps fund the celebrations and activities for next year.
93. Send thank-you notes to friends who joined your celebrations
If you celebrated Mardi Gras with friends, make sure to show your appreciation by sending a heartfelt thank-you note. It’s a thoughtful gesture that helps spread the positive spirit of the holiday.
94. Host a fundraising event with a Mardi Gras theme
Give back to a good cause by hosting a Mardi Gras-themed fundraising event. This can be a fun way to engage with others while supporting a meaningful cause.
95. Participate in a charity run or walk during Mardi Gras
Many charity runs or walks are organized during Mardi Gras, providing an opportunity to stay active while contributing to a charitable cause. Look for one in your area and get involved.
96. Support local musicians by attending their performances
New Orleans is known for its vibrant music scene. Support local musicians by attending their performances during Mardi Gras, and enjoy the soulful sounds of the city.
97. Share your Mardi Gras experience on social media
Let your friends and followers in on the fun by sharing your Mardi Gras experiences on social media. Post photos, videos, and stories that capture the magic of the celebration.
98. Write a blog post about your favorite Mardi Gras memories
Writing a blog post is a great way to reflect on your Mardi Gras experience. Share your favorite memories, moments of joy, and things you learned during the festivities.
99. Create a scrapbook of your Mardi Gras adventures
Document your Mardi Gras experience by creating a scrapbook. Include photos, tickets, beads, and other mementos that represent the highlights of your celebration.
100. Plan your next Mardi Gras trip and set new goals!
Mardi Gras is so much fun that you’ll definitely want to return. Start planning your next trip and set new goals to make it even better than the last!
With this list, you’re ready to celebrate Mardi Gras to the fullest while embracing moments of fun, culture, and self-care. Let’s make this season unforgettable.
Kisses, Juhh!
