Welcome to the Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association
For over 90 years, the Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association (GSW) has been the heart of Lafayette’s Mardi Gras festivities. Since 1934, we’ve brought safe, family-friendly parades and events to the community, showcasing the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras.
Today, more than 20 Krewes are recognized under the GSW umbrella, and we proudly serve as a liaison between Lafayette’s public agencies, including the Lafayette Consolidated Government and the Lafayette Sheriff’s Department, and all affiliated Krewes.
Our Mission
The Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association was established to:
- Foster, promote, and coordinate Mardi Gras celebrations in Lafayette.
- Serve as a volunteer-run organization that collaborates with local agencies to bring the Mardi Gras spirit to life.
We are not a Krewe, but a dedicated board of volunteers who:
- Produce and coordinate parades and the City Ball.
- Secure floats, hire marching bands, and manage event logistics.
- Organize “Le Festival de Mardi Gras a’ Lafayette” at Cajun Field.
Parades
Our Association oversees the organization of Lafayette’s iconic Mardi Gras parades. These include:
- Friday Kick-Off Parade: Krewe of Allons, featuring Ragin’ Cajuns excitement
- Saturday Children’s Parade: A family favorite!
- Saturday Night Parade: Krewe of Bonaparte brings evening flair!
- Monday Night Parade: Honoring Queen Evangeline LXXXV
- Tuesday Morning Parades: King Gabriel’s Parade and Lafayette Mardi Gras Festival Parade
- Tuesday Independent Parade: The grand finale!
The City Ball
Held on Mardi Gras night, the City Ball is open to the public with no admission fee, inviting everyone to join in the celebration.
Le Festival de Mardi Gras a’ Lafayette
This vibrant festival at Cajun Field features:
- Carnival rides and games
- A wide variety of live music and performances
- Delicious Cajun food
- Parades that roll right through the festival grounds, ensuring a full Mardi Gras experience in one convenient location
Mardi Gras in Lafayette
Mardi Gras is the biggest free party in Lafayette, and it’s made possible by the contributions of various Krewes, their members, and the Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association. Our festival spans five incredible days, starting Friday evening and concluding on Mardi Gras Tuesday.