Weddings During Mardi Gras: What You Need to Know

There’s no season quite like Mardi Gras in New Orleans. The city comes alive with music, parades, costumes, and a celebratory spirit that’s unlike anywhere else. For couples who love the idea of tying the knot during Carnival season, a Mardi Gras wedding can be magical—but it also comes with unique challenges.

At New Orleans Wedding Planners LLC, we’ve helped couples navigate weddings during Mardi Gras, and we know exactly how to blend the fun with flawless planning. Here are the essential do’s and don’ts of saying “I do” during Carnival.

✅ Do’s

1. Book Early—Very Early

Venues, hotels, and vendors book up quickly during Carnival season. Secure your date at least a year in advance to avoid disappointment.

2. Secure Guest Accommodations ASAP

Hotels fill fast during Mardi Gras, especially along parade routes. Reserve blocks of rooms well in advance to ensure your guests have a place to stay.

3. Add Mardi Gras Flair

This is your chance to get creative!

• Incorporate purple, green, and gold in chic ways (florals, invitations, or a king cake).

• Provide masks, beads, or parasols for guests.

• Plan a second line parade to keep the Carnival energy flowing.

4. Check Parade Schedules

Your ceremony or reception could coincide with a major parade. With careful planning, this can be a highlight—imagine a parade as your wedding-day backdrop!

❌ Don’ts

1. Don’t Underestimate Traffic & Street Closures

Parade routes mean blocked streets and crowded areas. Always arrange shuttles, provide clear maps, and plan extra travel time for guests.

2. Don’t Overload the Theme

It’s tempting to go all out with Mardi Gras décor, but subtlety keeps your wedding elegant. Think refined jewel tones instead of plastic beads everywhere.

3. Don’t Forget Local Logistics

Noise ordinances, permits for second lines, and venue restrictions matter more during Mardi Gras chaos. Work with a planner who knows how to navigate them.

4. Don’t Assume Guests Know What to Expect

Out-of-town guests may be new to Carnival. Provide an itinerary, dress code guidance (comfy shoes for parades!), and tips on enjoying Mardi Gras safely.

Final Thoughts

A Mardi Gras wedding can be the celebration of a lifetime—vibrant, joyful, and uniquely New Orleans. But without proper planning, it can also get overwhelming fast.

✨ At New Orleans Wedding Planners LLC, we handle the logistics, from parade schedules to guest accommodations, so you can focus on celebrating your love story in true Carnival style.