Lafayette celebrates one of Louisiana’s most vibrant Carnival traditions, and the Lafayette Mardi Gras parade schedule 2026 is packed with colorful floats, family-friendly events, and lively street processions across the city and surrounding communities. With festivities running from early February through Mardi Gras Day on Tuesday, February 17, the schedule has something for everyone — from evening walking parades to classic Fat Tuesday processions downtown.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to enjoy Cajun culture, music, and throws, here’s the latest parade schedule and what you need to know.
Why Lafayette’s Mardi Gras Is Worth Celebrating
Mardi Gras in Lafayette isn’t just a single day of fun — it’s a full season of community parades, family traditions, and local flair. Lafayette’s Carnival celebrations are rooted in rich Cajun and Creole heritage, blending music, food, and pageantry in ways unique to South Louisiana. These parades draw locals and visitors eager to experience joyful processions with decorated floats, marching bands, and throws for all ages.
Join the crowds and feel the energy as Lafayette lights up with glittering beads and festive music in the heart of Acadiana.
If you’re planning your schedule around Lafayette’s Carnival celebrations, here’s the verified parade lineup for 2026 as it currently stands:
🌟 From classic walking parades to the biggest processions on Fat Tuesday — plan your route and times below.
Official Lafayette Mardi Gras Parade Schedule 2026
Early & Night Parades (February 6–14)
- Friday, February 6 – Krewe Des Canailles Parade
Time: 7:00 p.m.
This lively downtown walking parade kicks off the season, winding through the heart of Lafayette. - Saturday, February 7 – Krewe of Rio Parade
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Watch this festive evening parade light up streets as floats and music entertain crowds. - Friday, February 13 – Krewe of Allons Kick-Off Parade
Time: 6:30 p.m.
This Friday night procession signals the start of the main Carnival weekend. - Saturday, February 14 – Children’s Parade & Krewe of Bonaparte Parade
12:30 p.m. – Children’s Parade
6:30 p.m. – Krewe of Bonaparte Parade
Family fun fills Lafayette streets with colorful costumes and spirited floats.
Monday Night Celebration
- Monday, February 16 – Monday Night Parade Honoring Queen Evangeline LXXXVII
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Experience this regal parade celebrating Lafayette’s Carnival royalty.
Fat Tuesday Parades (February 17 – Mardi Gras Day)
On Mardi Gras Day itself, Lafayette’s streets will buzz with multiple exciting parades:
- King Gabriel’s Parade
Time: 10:00 a.m.
A morning highlight, this parade kicks off Fat Tuesday with energy and pageantry. - Lafayette Mardi Gras Festival Parade
Time: 1:00 p.m.
One of the largest and most colorful processions of the day, featuring bands, floats, and local krewes. - Independent Parade
Time: 2:00 p.m.
A spirited procession with community groups, riders, and more, wrapping up Lafayette’s 2026 Mardi Gras celebrations.
Where the Parades Roll
Most Lafayette processions begin at Pontiac Point (Jefferson St. at Surrey St.) and proceed to Cajun Field, creating a vibrant parade corridor through downtown Lafayette. Street closures start roughly one hour before each parade begins, and traffic adjustments are in effect throughout the Carnival season.
Tips for Attending Lafayette Mardi Gras 2026
Arrive early for prime viewing: Popular parades on Mardi Gras Day bring large crowds downtown, so plan to stake out a route early.
Dress for comfort: Lafayette weather in mid-February can vary — dress in layers and comfortable shoes.
Parking & transit: Expect closures and detours along parade routes. Plan parking or use Lafayette Transit System with detour information in mind on parade days.
Family-friendly options: The Children’s Parade and early processions make Mardi Gras in Lafayette great for all ages.
Lafayette Mardi Gras Beyond Parades
While the parades are a centerpiece, Lafayette’s Carnival season also includes festivals, live music, Cajun and Creole food, and community celebrations across Acadiana. From neighborhood gatherings to local dance traditions, the whole region embraces the season of revelry.
Plan Your Visit Around These Dates
- Parades begin as early as February 6 and continue through Mardi Gras Day, February 17.
- Mardi Gras itself is on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 — the culmination of carnival celebrations statewide.
Experience the Heart of Cajun Carnival
From walking parades to Fat Tuesday’s main events, the Lafayette Mardi Gras parade schedule 2026 offers unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike. Mark your calendar, prepare your beads, and enjoy the music, culture, and spirited community celebration that makes Lafayette one of Louisiana’s Carnival highlights.
Tell us which Lafayette Mardi Gras procession you’re most excited to see — share in the comments below!