Fat Tuesday hits New Orleans this week with legendary parades

Fat Tuesday hits New Orleans this week with legendary parades rolling all day. February 17, 2026 marks the culmination of Carnival season, when Krewe of Zulu and Krewe of Rex lead the charge at dawn. Dozens of iconic krewes will parade from dawn until midnight, throwing beads, throws, and creating unforgettable chaos.

The Ultimate Mardi Gras 2026 Schedule Explained

Carnival season spreads excitement across six weeks leading to Mardi Gras Day. Major parades roll nightly from February 11-17, with the busiest days being Saturday and Sunday before Fat Tuesday. Krewe of Endymion rolls on Saturday at 4:00 p.m., while Krewe of Bacchus takes Sunday afternoon.

Samedi Gras kicks off the final weekend with 2,500-3,700 riders per major parade throwing thousands of beads, doubloons, and specialty items. Over 100 krewes parade throughout the season, each with unique themes, royalty, and elaborate floats.

When the Biggest Parades Roll Down New Orleans Streets

Friday, February 13 features Krewe of Bosom Buddies and nighttime parades in the French Quarter. Saturday explodes with Krewe of Iris at 11:00 a.m. in Uptown, followed by the legendary Endymion at 4:00 p.m. Sunday brings Krewe of Bacchus and theatrical double-decker floats reaching five stories high.

Mardi Gras morning starts early: Krewe of Zulu honors tradition since 1909 with iconic hand-painted coconut throws that fans scramble for. Rex, the oldest super-krewe founded in 1872, follows with marching bands, dance troupes, and mounted riders.

What to Expect from 2026’s Most Anticipated Krewe Parades

Krewe of Endymion draws over 3,000 riders on animated floats with pop culture themes. Krewe of Bacchus features giant theatrical floats and celebrity appearances. Tucks parade on Monday with the comedic theme “Tucks Finally Cracks,” featuring 2,500 costumed riders.

Krewe	Date & Time	Location	Riders
Zulu	Feb 17, 8:00 a.m.	Uptown	1,200+
Rex	Feb 17, 10:30 a.m.	Uptown	2,000+
Endymion	Feb 14, 4:00 p.m.	Mid-City	3,000+
Bacchus	Feb 15, afternoon	Uptown	2,500+

SuperKrewes like Endymion, Bacchus, Muses, and Orpheus throw specialty items: signature shoes, hand-painted items, and collectible throws that fans treasure for years. Watch where each float stops for throws.

“Krewes amplify Mardi Gras parades, fostering unique cultural traditions with themes, royalty, and spectacular floats that transform New Orleans streets into a carnival celebration.”

— NewOrleans.com, Mardi Gras Cultural Authority

Iconic Mardi Gras Throws and Parade Traditions in 2026

Zulu coconuts remain the most coveted throw items, hand-painted and numbered for collectibility. Muses shoes from Krewe of Muses attract celebrity signatures and artistic designs. Throws range from traditional beads and doubloons to specialty items: plush animals, decorated masks, and glow sticks.

Monday Lundi Gras features live music on the banks of the Mississippi River before Mardi Gras nightfall. Orpheus rolls at 6:00 p.m. with New Orleans musicians performing on decorated floats. Costumed krewe members interact directly with crowds during intimate Marigny parades.

How Can First-Time Visitors Make the Most of Fat Tuesday 2026?

Arrive early to nail prime parade-viewing spots along St. Charles Avenue or Canal Street, where major krewes roll in succession. Bring empty bags for throws, stay hydrated, and watch for announcements about parade delays due to weather.

Join organized parade viewing stands offering premium seating, or explore French Quarter walking tours with guides explaining krewe history. Mardi Gras officially ends at midnight, but celebrations continue in clubs and bars across Bourbon Street, Frenchmen Street, and Marigny through sunrise.

Sources

• NewOrleans.com – Comprehensive Mardi Gras schedule, parade routes, and krewe information
• MardiGrasNewOrleans.com – 2026 official parade schedule with times and locations
• NOLA.com – Festival highlights, entertainment lineup, and traditional throw trends for 2026