Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras
Lake Charles Celebrates Jan. 6 - Feb. 13, 2024!
Mardi Gras in Lake Charles is in full swing with the culmination of all the events leading up to Mardi Gras Day, Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Lake Charles Mardi Gras krewes are gearing up for a festive season filled with parades, gumbo cookoffs, and plenty of King Cake. Lake Charles Mardi Gras is family-friendly, and it boasts over 60 krewes that participate in the Krewe of Krewes Parade, which is the culmination of the season on Fat Tuesday. Many bakeries, restaurants, and businesses also participate in the Mardi Gras season by offering traditional King Cakes, food, and drink options with a Mardi Gras twist or seasonal specials and events to celebrate the Mardi Gras spirit in Southwest Louisiana.
Mark your calendar: The season kicks off with Twelfth Night on Saturday, Jan. 6. Mardi Gras Weekend runs Friday, Feb. 9 - Tuesday, Feb. 13. Friday is the Merchants' Parade down Ryan St. Saturday features the Krewe of Omega Parade, Krewe of Barkus Dog Parade, and the World Famous Mardi Gras Gumbo Cookoff. Sunday, Children's Day will be followed by the popular Mardi Gras Children's Day Parade. The Cinderella moment of Mardi Gras with the presentation of royal courts takes place on Monday with the Royal Gala. Fat Tuesday features an array of parades along with the Mardi Gras Downtown Block Party and the In the Zone alcohol and tobacco free children's area with games and food. Be sure to catch plenty of beads and enjoy the Jeeps on Parade, Second Line Stroll, and the Krewes of Imperial Calcasieu Parade!
