Family-Friendly Guide to Mardi Gras in Lake Charles, Louisiana

Mardi Gras in Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana is bursting with color, culture, and family fun. Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras Day) falls on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, but the excitement begins long before then.

Although family-friendly activities happen all week, the official day dedicated to children is Sunday, February 15, featuring Mardi Gras Children’s Day at the Lake Charles Event Center followed by the beloved Children’s Day Parade rolling that afternoon.

Best of all, all parades are FREE and family-friendly, making Lake Charles one of the most welcoming Mardi Gras destinations in Louisiana.

Children’s Parades & Strolls

Lake Charles offers several parades designed specifically with children in mind, each filled with energy, creativity, and plenty of opportunities to catch beads.

Local students shine during the Oak Park Elementary Mardi Gras Parade on Friday, February 13 at 12:30 PM, where children parade through the neighborhood celebrating their academic achievements and school spirit.

As Mardi Gras weekend approaches, kids get their moment in the spotlight during the Children’s Mardi Gras Stroll on Saturday, February 14 from 9:00 AM–11:00 AM. This charming walking parade invites children ages 3–12 to decorate their own umbrellas and strut along a safe, closed route at Millennium Park. Later that afternoon, the always-beloved Krewe of Barkus Parade rolls at 1 PM, delighting young spectators with a parade of costumed dogs showing off their festive best. Families can also enjoy magical nighttime fun during the Mardi Gras Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday, February 14 at 7 PM, when glowing boats illuminate the lakefront in a sparkling, kid-approved display.

The celebration continues on Sunday, February 15, with the Children’s Day Parade at 3:30 PM. Featuring youth groups, kid-friendly krewes, and colorful floats, it’s one of the most anticipated family events of Mardi Gras weekend.

On Fat Tuesday, February 17, families can enjoy a lively lineup of parades perfect for all ages. The fun begins with the Second Line Stroll at 1 PM, followed by Jeeps on Parade at 2 PM, and the high-octane Motor Gras Parade at 3 PM. Fat Tuesday concludes with the spectacular Krewe of Krewes Parade at 5 PM, featuring more than 60 elaborate floats packed with beads, music, and high-energy Mardi Gras excitement.

Children’s Events & the Mardi Gras Family Zone

Beyond the parades, Lake Charles offers several fun and interactive ways for kids to experience the spirit of Mardi Gras.

On Sunday, February 15, families can begin their day at Mardi Gras Children's Day, held from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM at the Lake Charles Event Center. This free, interactive festival blends arts, science, technology, music, and history in an environment perfect for curious young minds. Kids can craft their own Mardi Gras keepsakes, learn about the origins of Carnival, explore cultural exhibits, and enjoy hands-on activities led by local organizations.

Fat Tuesday brings more family fun with Mardi Gras in the Zone, a safe, substance-free event on Tuesday, February 17 from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Located along the parade route at 1015 Pithon Street, the Zone offers bounce houses, inflatable games, laser tag, activity tents, and interactive entertainment. Kids can enjoy free hot dogs, popcorn, Coca-Cola products, and Kona Ice while parents relax in a secure, family-focused environment before the afternoon parades begin.

Educational Experiences & Museums

Lake Charles is rich with cultural opportunities that help children and families connect with the traditions, artistry, and history of Mardi Gras. Throughout the season, several local institutions offer themed programming perfect for young learners. The Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana at Port Wonder features hands-on Mardi Gras activities designed especially for little explorers, while Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center hosts creative workshops and cultural experiences that let kids dive deeper into Carnival arts and traditions.

Families can also discover festive creativity at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, which will feature a special Mardi Gras exhibit along with a mask-decorating station where children can design their own Carnival accessories.

But one of the biggest highlights of the 2026 season is the highly anticipated reopening of the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu, now located in the Nellie Lutcher Cultural District. This world-class attraction will showcase the largest display of Mardi Gras costumes anywhere in the world, offering an unforgettable opportunity for families to see the artistry, craftsmanship, and pageantry behind the region’s most dazzling traditions. With stunning exhibits, immersive storytelling, and centuries of Carnival history, it’s a must-visit destination for Mardi Gras fans of all ages. Opening Jan 2026.

More Things to Do During Mardi Gras Season

Between parades, families can explore other Lake Charles attractions to round out the trip. Drive through the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road for wildlife viewing, stop by Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point for interactive exhibits, enjoy the playground and lakefront paths at Millennium Park, or dive into immersive learning at Port Wonder. If you’re looking for indoor fun, local shops offer Mardi Gras souvenirs, while ice cream and snoball stops provide sweet treats kids love.

No Mardi Gras trip is complete without indulging in the sweet side of Carnival season. Families can sample king cakes in every flavor, from traditional cinnamon to filled, glazed, and over-the-top creations. Plus, Mardi Gras–inspired pastries, cookies, cupcakes, and colorful desserts offered at bakeries and restaurants throughout Lake Charles. It’s the perfect way to add a delicious, festive touch between parades and activities.