
While Mardi Gras is full of tradition, one of the joys of the annual event is that it always brings something new to see. Our real estate agents eagerly anticipate these upcoming parades and activities around Lafayette homes for sale.
Described as "a parade by the people for the people," the Krewe de Canailles Walking Parade adds variety by choosing a different theme for each year. In 2026, "Roadside Attractions" highlights gas station boudin, UFO landing sites, and other quirky sites that don't show up in most tourist guides.
Don your most comfortable walking shoes at 7 p.m. on Friday, 2/6. Join other age-21-and-up celebrants for the afterparty at Warehouse 535. Admission is $20.
Have fun with the whole family as you participate in a version of the traditional Courir de Mardi Gras. The event, which translates to "Fat Tuesday Run," is essentially a party-within-the-party that's celebrated in Acadiana each year.
Activities during the day include:
Courir de Mardi Gras is scheduled for 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Sunday, 2/8. Admission is $10 for adults and $6 for children.
It takes an entire football stadium to hold all the fun that makes up Le Festival de Mardi Gras à Lafayette. In addition to all the onsite activities, all Lafayette Mardi Gras parades end up at Cajun Field, so the festival affords prime parade-watching spots.
Enjoy all the classic festival activities, such as:
Le Festival de Mardi Gras à Lafayette takes place from Friday, 2/13, through Tuesday, 2/17. Admission is free, with ride wristbands available for purchase.
Mardi Gras festivities officially begin with the Krewe of Allons "Kick-Off" Parade. As one of the newer krewes in town, formed in 2023, the Krewe of Allons represents and supports Ragin' Cajun student-athletes from LSU.
Parade time is 6:30 p.m. on Friday, 2/13.
During most parades, it's tough for kids to compete with much taller adults for throws. Solution? Take the little ones to the Children's Parade in downtown Lafayette. Kids can boost their chances by making and displaying a colorful sign as the krewes pass by.
Participating krewes include:
Plan for a 12:30 p.m. start time on Saturday, 2/14.
What's a parade without an appearance by royalty? Queen Evangeline LXXXVII presides over this year's version of the Monday Night Parade. In 1934, King Gabriel and Queen Evangeline became the official titles for the men and women selected to rule Mardi Gras each year.
Mark your calendar for 6 p.m. on Monday, 2/16. King Gabriel gets his own parade at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, 2/17.
Planning to view Lafayette open houses during Mardi Gras season? Contact us for an up-to-the-minute report of listings.