Mardi Gras in Baton Rouge does not arrive quietly. It shows up loud colorful and ready to take over the city. In 2026 the Capital City is packed with parades that bring together neighborhoods downtown streets marching bands wild costumes and more beads than you know what to do with. From late January through Lundi Gras and even after Fat Tuesday Baton Rouge delivers a full Carnival season without ever leaving town.

The celebration begins on Saturday January 31 with the Krewe of Oshun kicking off the season and setting the tone early. This parade brings strong community energy bright floats and a sense that Mardi Gras has officially arrived. Not long after downtown lights up on Friday February 6 when the Krewe of Artemis rolls. As Baton Rouge’s only all female krewe Artemis is bold fun and always a crowd favorite. This nighttime parade feels like a citywide celebration with music lights and nonstop excitement.

Saturday February 7 is when things really go all in. The afternoon belongs to Le Krewe Mystique de la Capitale followed by the Krewe of Orion later that evening. Orion’s nighttime roll is known for big floats glowing lights and crowds that are ready to camp out and make a full day of it. This is one of those Saturdays where pacing is optional and leaning all the way in is encouraged.

Sunday February 8 keeps the party going with Mid City Gras. This parade has carved out its own reputation as creative quirky and full of personality. It feels less like a formal parade and more like a moving neighborhood party complete with clever throws and costumes that do not take themselves too seriously.

As Mardi Gras gets closer the traditions get richer. On Friday February 13 the Krewe of Southdowns rolls through its neighborhood route with flambeaux style charm. This parade is smaller more intimate and full of classic Carnival character reminding everyone why Mardi Gras means so much to Baton Rouge.

Saturday February 14 belongs entirely to Spanish Town. The Spanish Town Mardi Gras Parade is the biggest and boldest of the season and easily the most iconic. Famous for its pink flamingos satire and unapologetic humor this parade is packed from start to finish. If there is one parade locals will insist you experience this is it.

The fun continues on Sunday February 15 with Zachary’s inaugural Mardi Gras parade bringing a fresh addition to the region’s Carnival lineup. Then on Monday February 16 Lundi Gras the Krewe of Shenandoah rolls through the southeastern part of Baton Rouge offering a family friendly neighborhood celebration to close out the core season.

Just when it feels like Mardi Gras should be over Baton Rouge keeps the spirit alive. On Sunday February 22 the CAAWS Mystic Krewe of Mutts Parade takes over with a pet friendly celebration that proves Carnival is for everyone including four legged parade lovers.

From downtown chaos to cozy neighborhood routes Baton Rouge’s 2026 Mardi Gras season has something for every kind of parade goer. Whether you are chasing throws dressing up going all out or just soaking in the energy Carnival in Baton Rouge brings weeks of fun with a personality all its own. Grab your beads clear your calendar and get ready because Mardi Gras in Baton Rouge is anything but boring.