Parades that Light Up the Streets

Be part of the excitement as the Mardi Gras parades roll through Southwest Louisiana.

Experience the Heart of Mardi Gras

Join us in Lafayette for vibrant parades, rich traditions, and unforgettable celebrations.

Celebrate Mardi Gras Traditions

Dive into the cultural heritage and history that make our Mardi Gras unique.

Celebrating the Spirit of Mardi Gras

The Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Mardi Gras with our community and beyond. We organize parades, festivals, and events that showcase the vibrant culture of Lafayette.

parade goers
route icon

Parades

Don’t miss the excitement as dazzling parades wind through the streets.

Explore Parade Routes

festival icon

Festival

Enjoy carnival rides, live music, and delicious food at the Mardi Gras Festival.

Learn More About the Festival

parking icon

RV Parking

Find convenient parking options for your RV during Mardi Gras.

See Parking Information

registration icon

Independent Parade Float Entry

Enter a float into the Independent Parade on Mardi Gras day!

Learn How to Register

krewes icon

Krewes

Meet the Krewes that bring life and creativity to every parade.

View the Krewes

Traditions & History

Mardi Gras in Southwest Louisiana is rooted in centuries-old traditions that continue to shape our vibrant celebrations. From costume balls to parades, these customs have been passed down through generations.

Traditions

Our traditions, from intricate floats to the iconic King Cake, keep the spirit of Mardi Gras alive.

Past Royalty

Explore the legacy of Mardi Gras royalty, and how their influence has shaped Lafayette’s iconic celebrations.

News

Stay up to date with the latest Mardi Gras news, event updates, and announcements here.

parade royalty

Friday Night Kickoff Parade Announcement

Friday Night Kickoff Parade to feature Krewe Allons and Louisiana Ragin Cajuns! LAFAYETTE, LA (February 3, 2025) – Get ready to laissez les bons temps rouler with the Ragin’ Cajuns! The Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association (“GSW”) is thrilled to...

parade goers

Friday Night Kickoff Press Release 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Friday Night Kickoff Parade to feature Krewe Allons, Lafayette’s newest Krewe! LAFAYETTE, LA (December 21, 2023) – Get ready to laissez les bons temps rouler in a whole new way! The Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association...

group enjoying a parade

Friday Night Kickoff Press Release 2023

MARDI GRAS 2023 PRESS RELEASE Let's Mardi Gras Lafayette! The Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association is pleased to announce that Mardi Gras is back in full swing here in Lafayette!! Greater Southwest is making final plans to roll with its full...

attachment Le Festival de Mardi Gras a Lafayette

Friday Night Kickoff Press Release 2022

MARDI GRAS 2022 PRESS RELEASE Let's Mardi Gras Lafayette! The Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association is thrilled to announce that Mardi Gras is back in Lafayette. Greater Southwest is making final plans to roll with its full complement of parades...

Sponsors

Thanks to our volunteers and sponsors, who play a vital role in promoting and celebrating the Lafayette Mardi Gras year after year.

Service Chevrolet
J&J Exterminating
Event Solutions
Primeaux RV
Hancock Whitney
Coteau Grove
Bead Busters
Big 102.1
97.3 The Dawg