BATON ROUGE, La (Louisiana First) — Mardi Gras 2026 is shaping up to be one for the record books, with Louisiana preparing to welcome thousands of first-time revelers too eager to experience the state’s biggest cultural celebration.
“Newcomers have nothing to worry about but only excitement,” said Donaldsonville Justice of Peace and Krewe of Dville Chair Tamiko Francis Garrison. “For a first-time attendee, you’re going to have a wonderful, fantastic time.”
From Baton Rouge to New Orleans, Mardi Gras offers more than beads; its culture, food, and community is on full display.
“You have to come to Louisiana at least once in your lifetime to experience our Mardi Gras; there’s nothing like it,” said Garrison.
Many newcomers quickly find themselves hooked. One trip becomes a memory they will chase forever.
“You become addicted. Once you go once, it’s memorable, and you will always try to get back to it,” she said.
But Mardi Gras is more than just fun it’s a celebration of Louisiana pride.
“Louisiana is the friendliest state in the country, and we love family, we love food, and we love enjoying each other,” said Garrison. “If you want to come down to Louisiana, if you don’t get to come down any other time, it should be during the Mardi Gras parade.”
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