BATON ROUGE, La (Louisiana First) \u2014 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\u2019s biggest cultural celebration.<\/p>\n
\u201cNewcomers have nothing to worry about but only excitement,\u201d said Donaldsonville Justice of Peace and Krewe of Dville Chair Tamiko Francis Garrison. \u201cFor a first-time attendee, you\u2019re going to have a wonderful, fantastic time.\u201d<\/p>\n
From Baton Rouge to New Orleans, Mardi Gras offers more than beads; its culture, food, and community is on full display.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou have to come to Louisiana at least once in your lifetime to experience our Mardi Gras; there\u2019s nothing like it,\u201d said Garrison.<\/p>\n
Many newcomers quickly find themselves hooked. One trip becomes a memory they will chase forever.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou become addicted. Once you go once, it\u2019s memorable, and you will always try to get back to it,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
But Mardi Gras is more than just fun it\u2019s a celebration of Louisiana pride.<\/p>\n
\u201cLouisiana is the friendliest state in the country, and we love family, we love food, and we love enjoying each other,\u201d said Garrison. \u201cIf you want to come down to Louisiana, if you don\u2019t get to come down any other time, it should be during the Mardi Gras parade.\u201d<\/p>\n
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