Get ready to embrace the vibrant culture and excitement of Mardi Gras like never before! Our 2025 Mardi Gras Guide is your ultimate resource for celebrating this iconic Louisiana tradition. From specialty baking classes to 5K runs, pet parades, captivating museum exhibits, and, of course, those unforgettable Mardi Gras parades, there’s something for every family to enjoy. This guide is all about creating meaningful connections with our community while making cherished memories along the way. 💜💛💚
☕Macaroni KID is thrilled to partner with CC’s Coffee House of Monroe to bring this guide to life. CC’s is your go-to spot for incredible Gambino King Cakes (whole or by the slice) and irresistible seasonal beverages such as King Cake Espresso No. 22, Mardi Gras Mambo Mochasippi, and King Cake Latte —perfect for fueling all your Mardi Gras adventures! Just like CC's Coffee House of Monroe, the parades will be tropically wonderful, and we can't wait to share all the fun. (ORDER NOW)
BONUS FUN 🌺Catch those tropical vibes in the image above? That’s no accident! This year’s Krewe de Riviere theme is Island Time, and they want everyone showing up dressed like a tourist. Think loud shirts, floppy hats, socks with sandals (no judgment here 😎).
And honestly, with Louisiana weather being what it is, it might actually feel like the tropics.
Extra fun for the kiddos: we’ve hidden tiny hibiscus flowers throughout—find them all and submit your answers to be entered to win a CC’s Coffee House Monroe King Cake: a little hide-and-seek, a little sugar, a lotta island magic.
PLAY NOW!
☀️At Macaroni KID Monroe-West Monroe, we want every family to feel included and enjoy the magic of Mardi Gras. That’s why we’re so excited to partner with THRIVE Pediatric Therapy to share thoughtful tips that can help make the festivities fun for everyone! THRIVE Pediatric Therapy provides exceptional pediatric, occupational, physical, and speech therapy services across northeast Louisiana. Built on a family-centered approach, THRIVE empowers families to play an active role in their child’s progress, ensuring that therapy goals extend beyond the center and into daily life. With consistency and collaboration, THRIVE helps children and their families achieve meaningful milestones together. (CLICK ON Parade Sensory Guide)
Don't forget to bookmark this guide, add the events to your calendar, and let the good times roll! 🎉 Check out the guide now and start making plans for a season full of fun, flavor, and family memories.
Mardi Gras Parades (Local and Louisiana) | ||
Mardi Gras Crafts, Recipe, King Cake Guide, and Fun Classes
MARDI GRAS RECYCLING TIPS:
- We've found great projects for your family, Mardi Gras Bead Recycling! Your Mardi Gras Beads can be taken to West Monroe City Hall, Alley Park, or Downtown West Monroe. You will see bead receptacles at these locations.
- Pack a bag for your throws and a bag for your trash. Take your trash, sort out your recyclables, and dispose of everything properly.
- Keep your best beads to use for ornaments and garland for a Mardi Gras Tree next year. This is such a fun plan-ahead project and saves you a little money.
CRAFT
Shoebox Mardi Gras Float
Looking for a fun and creative activity to do with your family? Look no further than the Mardi Gras Shoebox Float! This craft is the perfect way to let your child's imagination run wild and create a unique and festive decoration for your home. So why wait? Let the good times roll and get started on your own Mardi Gras Shoebox Float today!
RECIPE
Quick Family Fun! - Mardi Gras Edition
We have an idea for some quick, affordable family fun! This article is for your kids, and it has a fun video that teaches all about Mardi Gras! A simple step-by-step recipe will show your kids how to make their own King Cake.
KING CAKE GUIDE
2026 Monroe-West Monroe King Cake Guide
Don't miss out on the 2024 King Cake Guide. It features some of the best local bakeries and eateries in our community and reveals the little secrets that make them so special. We have also featured some Mardi Gras favorites!
FUN CLASSES
Mardi Gras Sugar Cookie Decorating Class
The Little Sweet Shoppe
Tower Place, 1500 N. 19th St., Monroe, LA (1st Floor Conference Room)
Dates: 1/17/26
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Cost: $60.00 per person
In this class, you will join Amy Hobbs of The Little Sweet Shoppe, and learn the tips for royal icing cookie decorating! This is a beginner class that will teach:
Outline, Flood, Using Royal Icing Transfers, Consistencies, Sprinkles, and Wet on Wet designs.
Each guest will leave with adorable cookies and their own cookie scribe. We will giggle, decorate cookies, and learn something new. Every single class is so much fun!
Extra boxes are available for $20/each if you would like to practice on an extra set at home after the event.
Note: Each guest will need a ticket to the class.
King Cake Creations Hosted by Aileen's Sweet Shop
Ruston Farmers Market
220 East Mississippi Ave., Ruston, LA
Date: 1/29/26
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Cost: $35.00 per child
Join us on January 29th from 6–8 PM for King Cake Creations at the Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, led by Aileen’s Sweet Shop. This festive, hands-on class is perfect for celebrating the season while learning how to make a beautiful and delicious king cake.
Aileen will guide participants through the process of creating a classic king cake, sharing tips on dough, fillings, shaping, and decorating. You’ll learn techniques to customize your cake with different flavors and finishes while gaining confidence to recreate it at home.
Guests will enjoy tasting during the class and leave with their own king cake creations, along with the skills to bring a little Mardi Gras magic to family gatherings and celebrations.
Only 12 spots available. Call or text 318-957-1305 with any questions.
Mardi Gras Events (Balls, Exhibits, Auctions, Jester Jog)
Twin Cities Krewe de Riviere Grand Ball
ULM Bayou Pointe Event Center
4310 Bon Aire Drive, Monroe, LA
Date: 1/17/25
Time: 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Dress: Formal (Floor-length gown and tuxedos required)
Cost: $100
Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Ball
The Hub Event Venue
201 Washington St., Monroe, LA
Date: 1/24/26
Time: 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Dress: Formal (Floor-length gown and tuxedos required)
Cost: See Website
Join the Krewe of Janus for the 43rd Annual Mardi Gras Ball and a fun evening of Entertainment & Dancing! Music by Johhny Earthquake & the MoonDogs.
Mardi Gras Party at The Children's Museum of Northeast Louisiana
323 Walnut St., Downtown Monroe, LA
Date: 1/25/26
Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Cost: $10.00 per person, ages 2+
Join the museum for a Mardi Gras celebration with the Twin Cities Krewe de Riviere! Decorate King Cakes and Mardi Gras masks, explore Mardi Gras STEM activities, and play in the museum.
King Cake Tasting & Mardi Gras Gown Exhibit
The Biedenharn Museum and Gardens
2000 Riverside Drive, Monroe, LA
Opening Date: 1/29/26
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Cost: $20.00 per person
Enjoy a selection of local bakeries' King Cakes to make your carnival sweeter. There will also be a chance to have the first look at our Mardi Gras gown and costume exhibit, provided by the Krewe of Janus.
Add to Your Calendar: 👑King Cake Tasting at The Biedenharn
Mardi Gras Gown Exhibit
The Biendenharn Museum and Gardens
2000 Riverside Drive, Monroe, LA
Opening Date: 1/29/26
Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm - Closed Sunday and Monday
Cost: Adults $12.00, Military/Senior $10.00, Students $6.00
Experience over 40 years of Monroe Mardi Gras History, featuring the stunning court regalia and custom posters of local Krewes. This exhibit is included in general tour admission.
Jester Jog 5K Color Celebration
The Corner of Wood and Commerce, West Monroe, LA
Date: 2/19/26
Start Time: 2:30 pm
Cost: $30 per Person
The most festive 5K of the year, and we are making it even better! Run a portion of the West Monroe Mardi Gras Parade Route and Downtown West Monroe on a double loop route to celebrate with the colors of Mardi Gras! This year, we will add the celebration of colors in the form of powders that are thrown during the run/walk!! Enjoy King Cake after the race. Finisher specialty beads for everyone! To guarantee your T-shirt, please register by Feb 3, 2026. Ainsley's Angel Runners are always welcome. Please use the Ainsley's Angel Category when registering.
This color celebration 5K is not timed. The double loop route is a true 5K. You can choose to do only one loop and make it a half run if you like! Grab your support team and come downtown early to watch the Paws Pet Parade! Activities begin at 10 am and continue all day. The 5K begins at 2:30 pm. We will gather at the corner of Wood and Commerce.
$35 entry fee for the 5K includes a T-shirt, buff, and sunglasses to be used during the run.
$35 entry fee for Ainsley's Angels includes two T-shirts, 2 buffs, and 2 sunglasses.
$20 T-shirt only, if you just want a cool Jester Jog T-shirt.
$27 Entry fee if you do not want a T-shirt!
Packet pick up on Friday at The Perfect Find, 314 Trenton Street, 12-7, or on Saturday at 11 am in Alley Park.
Wear your best Mardi Gras outfit and be prepared to have a blast at the most festive 5K in the Twin Cities!
Costume Prizes:
Best Child Costume
Best Female Costume
Best Male Costume
Best Group Costume
Thank you to our Title Sponsor Walsworth and Co. and Down the Aisle!
Sponsors:
Vanguard Realty
Hamilton House Inn
The Perfect Find
A special Thank You to our color sponsors: Eleven26 Boutique, Walsworth & Company, Just Peachy, Sweet Loves Bakery and Cottonport Antique Mall
Add to Your Calendar: 👟👑Jester Jog 5K Color Celebration
Mardi Gras Parades
19th Annual Krewe of D'arbonne
Date: 1/31/26
Line-Up: 5:30 pm Parade Rolls at: 6:30 pm
Location: Starts at Old Farmerville High School
Join the Farmerville Jaycees for the 19th Annual Krewe of D’Arbonne Mardi Gras Parade! Get ready to catch those beads and revel in the Mardi Gras spirit on Saturday, January 31st, 2026! The Krewe of D’Arbonne is back for our 19th year, and we’re inviting everyone to be part of the fun. Whether you’re planning to ride in the parade or just enjoy the sights and sounds, now’s the time to make your plans.
Good news: Parade entry is FREE! So gather your krewe, decorate your floats, and let’s make this a celebration to remember. Don’t miss out on the most festive event of the season—see you there!
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Krewe of Janus - Children's Parade
Pecanland Mall-JC Penney Center Court
4700 Millhaven Road, Monroe, LA
Date: 2/07/26
Registration: 9:00 am
Parade Line-Up: 9:30 am
Parade Start: 10:00 am
Cost: FREE
The Annual Children's Parade at Pecanland Mall is a delightful event that is sure to put a smile on your face. It's a miniature Mardi Gras celebration that features decorated wagons, adorable little costumed riders, and plenty of throws to catch. Whether you come to cheer on the riders or join in the fun, you will surely have a great time at this festive event! The parade theme is Throw Me Somethin' Mister!
Krewe of Paws - Pet Parade
Antique Alley
100-400 Blocks of Trenton Street, West Monroe, LA
Date: 2/07/26
Parade Registration and Kids' Games: 11:00 am - 12:45 pm
Costume and Float Contest: Noon (Winners will be announced immediately following the contest).
Parade Start Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Cost: Attendance is FREE. The starting fee is $30.00 to register a pet to enter the parade.
Everyone loves the pet parade! Handmade mini-floats, dogs in costume, and throws! This is also a pet-friendly day on Trenton Street, so parade attendees will have their furry families enjoying the fun. MORE INFORMATION AND RULES
Online Registration or you can register your pets on parade day. This is a fundraiser for PAWS of Northeast Louisiana.
Carnival on Caney
Jimmie Davis State Park
1209 State Park Rd., Chatham, LA
Date: 2/07/26
Time: 2:00 pm
Cost: $3.00 Admission
Join us for the 4th Annual Carnival on Caney Mardi Gras Parade! The parade route will be through the day use area and campground. If you're participating in the Mardi Gras Parade, line up is at the group camp parking lot. Please plan to be in line by 1:45 PM. Parade rolls at 2 PM.
PARADE GUIDELINES
If you would like to participate in a club parade, please adhere to the following:
Street-legal vehicles, golf carts, and side-by-sides are approved for use.
Side-by-sides have to be trailered at all times except during the parade.
Use of side-by-sides in the park otherwise is a violation.
You must be a licensed driver to operate a motorized vehicle in the park/parade.
There's no fee to enter the parade.
The $10/day fee for golf carts are waived if you're participating in the parade.
We ask that you decorate your vehicle/float and provide throws.
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!
NEW ROUTE! Twin Cities' Krewe de Riviere Mardi Gras Parade
Date: 2/07/26
Time: 3:00 pm
King: Jay Davis, Local Mural Artist
Queen: Adrieene LaFrance-Wells, West Monroe Main Street Director/Downtown West Monroe
Theme: Island Time
Cost: FREE
To join or sponsor the Twin Cities Krewe de Rivière visit their website www.krewederiviere.com.
 New 2026 Twin Cities Krewe de Riviere Parade Route |
43rd Annual Krewe of Janus - Mardi Gras Parade
Date: 2/07/26
Time: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Theme: Throw Me, Somethin' Mister
Queen XLIII: Lynda Bergeron
King XLIII: Clif Bergeron
Duchesses: Danielle Coble, Lindsey Morris, Patti Wilhite, Dukes: Tyler Mullen, Nik Morris, Brent Vidrine
Grand Marshal: Phillip Mark Thomas
Route: The parade starts in West Monroe at 1118 Natchitoches St. at 6:00 pm, and the parade ends at Oliver Rd., Monroe, LA.
Cost: FREE
The Twin Cities’ Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras parade will celebrate its 43rd year of Mardi Gras tradition and flavor in the Twin Cities in 2026. The Twin Cities' Krewe of Janus Parade has entertained revelers since 1984, who eagerly gather along the 3.8-mile route through West Monroe and Monroe. The KOJ Parade is Northeast Louisiana’s oldest and most recognized Mardi Gras Parade. The parade includes nearly 50 units featuring several High School bands! The Parade has been recognized as one of the Top 20 Tourism Events in the South for three consecutive years as well as a Top 10 Attraction by the Southeastern Tourism Association. This year's featured groups are the 501st Legion (this group looks like Stormtroopers) and the Budweiser Clydesdales!
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Mardi Gras Parades in Louisiana
New Orleans and Southeast Louisiana
Mardi Gras New Orleans
St. Tammany-Northshore Mardi Gras
Louisiana Cajun Bayou Lafourche Parish
Baton Rouge Area
Baton Rouge Mardi Gras (9 Parades)
Pointe Coupee Parish Mardi Gras
Acadiana and Southwest Louisiana
Mardi Gras Lafayette
Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras
Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras
Iota Tee Mamou Mardi Gras Festival
Soileau Mardi Gras in Oberlin (Facebook Page)
Central Louisiana
Alexandria Mardi Gras (TBA)
North Louisiana
Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras (7 Parades)
Parade Sensory Guide
THRIVE Pediatric Therapy is thrilled to share these helpful parenting tips to ensure that all families can fully enjoy the excitement and magic of Mardi Gras! Their goal is to make this festive season fun, inclusive, and memorable for everyone. Let’s celebrate Louisiana culture together in a way that works for all! (MEET THEIR TEAM!)
Below are common sensory-rich features you may see at most parades.
- Crowds of people gathered in small areas.
- Loud music and instruments are playing.
- Bright lights.
- Moving decorations.
- Alarms and sirens.
- Strong scents or smells.
- Limited accessibility to toilets.
- Lack of food and drinks.
- Prepare Your Child in Advance:
- Talk about what to expect at the parade—loud noises, large crowds, and lots of activity.
- Use social stories or visual aids to help explain the event step-by-step.
- Watch videos of parades together so they can get an idea of the environment.
- Choose Your Location Wisely (If we learn of designated areas for Calm Down Spots, etc. we will add them here):
- Find a less crowded area toward the start or end of the parade route for a calmer experience.
- Arrive early to secure a spot that gives your child some personal space.
- Check if there are designated sensory-friendly zones at the parade.
- Bring Noise-Canceling Headphones or Earplugs:
- Protect your child’s ears from loud music and cheering.
- Let them try wearing headphones beforehand to ensure comfort.
- Create a Sensory Toolkit:
- Pack comfort items like a weighted blanket, fidget toys, or favorite snacks.
- Bring sunglasses or a hat if your child is sensitive to bright lights.
- Have a calming device, like a tablet with headphones, for breaks.
- Establish a Plan for Breaks:
- Locate nearby quiet areas or your car as a safe retreat.
- Let your child know it’s okay to take breaks when they feel overwhelmed.
- Dress for Comfort:
- Make sure your child wears comfortable clothing, including layers in case they get too warm or cold.
- Avoid itchy fabrics or costumes that might irritate them.
- Practice Safety Measures:
- Use a wristband or ID tag with your contact information in case you get separated.
- A luggage tag can work great! Write all information and connect the tag to a belt loop.
- Talk about staying together and set boundaries about where they can go.
- Encourage Participation in Their Own Way:
- Let your child decide if they want to yell for beads or just watch quietly.
- Bring a small bag of beads and throws for them to enjoy without needing to compete for items.
- Manage Expectations with Siblings:
- Explain to siblings why certain accommodations are in place.
- Plan for alternate activities for siblings if the parade becomes overwhelming for the whole family.
- Know When to Leave:
- Park in a location that allows easier access after the parade, even if it means walking a bit farther to avoid blocked roadways.
- Ensure your vehicle is close enough to use as a quiet retreat during the parade if needed.
- Plan for downtime in the car, such as having a movie ready on a tablet or portable DVD player, snacks, and blankets, in case you need to wait for roadways to reopen.
- Reflect After the Parade:
- Talk about what went well and what didn’t for future parades.
- Celebrate the small victories, like staying for part of the parade or enjoying specific moments.
Parade Safety for Pets
Parades are filled with lots of great food, family, friends, and strangers. Thinking about Mardi Gras just brings a smile to your face, right? You might even decide your pet needs to get a little dressed up for the event and/or ride in a heavily decorated float (wagon)!
Let's make sure you are prepared. Of course, bring the essentials like water, food, if on hot asphalt maybe booties...
Here are 7 tips for safety:
1. Use pet-friendly decorations.
Sparkly decorations can be seen as a "toy" to animals who play with or eat them. Avoid costumes that have buttons or other decors that can become loose and swallowed. Remember, you want the costume to fit properly (not too tight or loose). You also want to keep any sharp-edged decorations or glitter away from your pet's eyes. Make sure any props are made of shatterproof materials.
2. The pet should be on a leash at all times.
First of all, it is the law but most importantly a leash can keep your pet safe and more easily monitored. They will be outside in a place that is unfamiliar to both of you and there could be food, beverages, and also plants that can be harmful. The ASPCA has full lists of toxic and non-toxic plants for dogs and cats:
3. Know your fur baby.
If your baby doesn't like loud noise, crowds, kids, or being petted 5 million times, this might not be a happy place for them.
4. Don't forget to scoop the poop.
Make sure you have all of the essentials for cleaning up after your pet. Plastic bags, gloves, and baby wipes (for your hands). This may not be a safety issue, but it is very good pet etiquette.
5. Vaccinations
Most events that invite your pet to attend require that they are current on their vaccinations.
6. Lost Dog
Just in case your dog runs away (we know it happens), make sure your pet has an ID tag or microchip.
7. How Should Children Greet Pets?
Greeting unknown dogs slowly and letting a dog sniff your hand is a nice way to introduce yourself. Also, teaching children to ask for permission before they pet a dog. Remember, if a dog is eating or playing with a toy, giving the dog space could be important. Children might not be as aware of an animal's body language so parents can help teach their children how to help become aware of this silent language.
Many veterinarians are not open 24/7 so it’s really important to know where your nearest emergency vet facility is located. If your dog or cat accidentally ingests a potentially toxic substance, contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 (a fee may apply) for immediate assistance.
Parade Safety
As a reminder, please read the following:
- Keep kids with you at all times
- Put pertinent information in your child's pockets in case they are lost.
- Act responsibly
- Don’t run in the street after throws
- Stay away from the floats honoring barricades if present.
- DO NOT approach floats for any reason.
- DO NOT block the streets.
- Pay close attention to your children as well as others in your immediate area. Place a contact number of a parent/guardian in your child’s pocket, or shoe, or write your number on their arm. You can get temporary tattoos made with contact information.
- If you see something, say something. Several police personnel will be stationed throughout the parade route. Call 318-329-2600 for assistance in Monroe and (318)396-2722.
The Monroe and West Monroe Police Department asks for all citizens to assist in adhering to these guidelines to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable evening.
Road Closures
Message from the Krewe of Janus: Watch for float staging areas on Parade Day, Feb 7th. The Krewe will be pulling floats out of storage at our facility on Louisville Avenue early morning. The floats will travel from the KOJ Krewe den on Louisville Ave in 3 groups escorted by law enforcement from Hudson Lane to Louisville Ave, cross over the Louisville Bridge to Stella and on to Downing Pines Road for pre-parade staging. The floats will be staged on Industrial Street, Grantham Ave, & Wassan Street off of Downing Pines this year due to the Monster Truck races at the Ike. You may want to avoid these areas if you're in a hurry or don't want to be delayed by large, slow-moving floats. Please be patient with us as we prepare to entertain the Twin Cities this Mardi Gras Season!!!
The floats will move from pre-staging area to Natchitoches Street where it will roll at 6 pm. The parade begins at the I20 Overpass. We are not allowed to throw trinkets while traveling in these staging areas because we do not have security walkers in place. We begin throwing beads at the I20 overpass. Please set up after the I20 overpass to catch lots of goodies!!!
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