Beads and costumes and music…oh my! Mardi Gras time has to be one of the most fun times of the whole year. Although Mardi Gras itself in New Orleans may not be the ideal place for young children and families, the celebration in Lake Charles, Louisiana is fit for all to attend! Are you interested in experiencing Mardi Gras the Lake Charles way? Read on to learn more about this one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras experience happening in late February.

We get it, you want to enjoy Mardi Gras but at certain places, it may not be the most appropriate for children and families. No need to worry at Mardi Gras in Lake Charles! Not only is it appropriate for all ages, but they even dedicate an entire day to children and family activities during the celebration. What else is there to love about the celebration that makes Mardi Gras “Mardi Gras?’ The costumes, of course!  Lake Charles is also the only place in Louisiana where the public is welcomed to see the unique costumes the royal courts from all local krewes, both at the Twelfth Night evening as well as the Royal Gala, held the evening before the day of Mardi Gras. Did you know that some of the costumes can even weigh up to 65 pounds? They take this part seriously!

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Mardi Gras at Lake Charles

Mardi Gras weekend begins the Friday before Mardi Gras day with the Merchants’ Parade, and the weekend holds an endless amount of fun and exciting events such as the gumbo cook-off, all the Cajun food you can dream of, music to get you dancing in the street, activities, and entertainment for children, many parades, and the famous Krewe of Krewes’ Parade on Mardi Gras day. Take a look at the Mardi Gras Calendar for full descriptions of activities and their times.

Therefore, there’s no better way to experience Mardi Gras than at Lake Charles, right in the heart of Louisiana. Although New Orleans may be the most famous for the celebration, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t have a great experience elsewhere. Be sure to check it out and plan your trip to Lake Charles today! Visit their website for all of the travel information you’ll need for attending this event.

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Have you ever been to Mardi Gras in Lake Charles? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!  If you are planning on attending this year, be sure to drop us a line – we’d love to hear about it!

This Mardi Gras celebration is appropriate for all ages.