North Louisiana Mardi Gras: Shreveport and Monroe
Did you know that Mardi Gras celebrations happen throughout Louisiana? Check out what's happening this Carnival season up north!
At a Glance
- Shreveport and Monroe host family-friendly Mardi Gras celebrations that draw more than 400,000 visitors over two weeks each Carnival season.
- Shreveport’s top parades include the Krewe of Centaur, Krewe of Gemini and the pet-focused Krewe of Barkus and Meoux.
- In Monroe-West Monroe, highlights include the Krewe of Janus Parade and the Krewe de Rivière Parade, which crosses the Ouachita River.
Carnival celebrations in Shreveport and Monroe emphasize family fun. With plenty of food, music, parades and activities, Mardi Gras events in this area are anything but average. Get ready to catch parade throws (usually beads or other trinkets tossed from the floats) in a sea of people waving their arms and shouting, "Throw me something, mister!"
Over the course of two weeks, parades in Northern Louisiana can attract over 400,000 visitors. Pack your costumes and get ready to explore all that Carnival season has to offer throughout our state.
Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras Events
In Shreveport, the Krewe of Barkus and Meoux is family fun for everyone —
The Krewe of Centaur parade in downtown Shreveport was organized in 1991 and is one of the largest parades in the area. The Krewe of Gemini parade also rolls through downtown Shreveport. The Krewe of Highland parade has been drawing visitors to the Highland neighborhood since 1994. For more Mardi Gras magic, visit the Krewe of Gemini Mardi Gras Museum in Bossier City.
See the full Mardi Gras schedule for the Shreveport-Bossier area.
Mardi Gras Parades in Monroe & West Monroe
In the Monroe-West Monroe area, don’t miss the Krewe of Janus Parade, featuring local high school bands. Watch the Krewe de Rivière Parade as it rolls across the Ouachita River from West Monroe to Monroe. For the furry friends, the Krewe of PAWS Mardi Gras Pet Parade takes place along Antique Alley in West Monroe.
For more about Mardi Gras in Monroe-West Monroe, visit the Monroe-West Monroe Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Other Things to Do in North Louisiana
While you’re in the area, enjoy local cuisine. Grab a Shrimp Buster with signature sauce at Herby K’s in Shreveport, or savor smothered pork chops at Big Momma’s Fine Foods in Monroe. Try your luck at a slot machine or horse race at Louisiana Downs Casino & Racetrack, or stroll through the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens.
Are you ready for Mardi Gras? Check out 10 things you should know about Mardi Gras and you'll be all set for the fun! Check out more Mardi Gras events in New Orleans and the South Louisiana region, plus Central Louisiana.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you celebrate Mardi Gras in North Louisiana?
North Louisiana offers Mardi Gras celebrations in Shreveport-Bossier and Monroe-West Monroe, with colorful parades, marching bands, family-friendly activities and festive floats. Visitors can watch traditional krewe parades, bring children to special kids' events or enjoy pet-friendly celebrations. These communities offer a different Carnival experience from New Orleans, with a strong emphasis on family fun and local traditions.
What are the best Mardi Gras parades in Shreveport-Bossier?
Popular Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras parades include the Krewe of Centaur, Krewe of Gemini and Krewe of Highland. The Krewe of Barkus and Meoux parade adds a playful twist by featuring dogs in Mardi Gras costumes. Each celebration offers its own atmosphere, from large downtown parades to neighborhood festivities.
What Mardi Gras celebrations take place in Monroe and West Monroe?
Monroe and West Monroe host several Mardi Gras events, including the Krewe of Janus Parade, the Krewe de Rivière Parade and the Krewe of PAWS Mardi Gras Pet Parade. Festivities feature floats, marching bands, family activities and costumed pets. Visitors can enjoy the celebrations while exploring local restaurants, shops and attractions in the twin cities.
Can you bring children to Mardi Gras celebrations in North Louisiana?
Yes. Many North Louisiana Mardi Gras celebrations are designed with families in mind. Children's parades, pet parades, colorful floats, marching bands and opportunities to catch beads and other throws make the region appealing to visitors of all ages. Families should review event-specific rules, parade routes and parking information before attending.
When is Mardi Gras celebrated in North Louisiana?
Mardi Gras season traditionally begins on January 6, known as Twelfth Night, and continues until Mardi Gras Day, the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. North Louisiana communities typically schedule parades and related events across several weekends during Carnival season. The dates change each year, so check local tourism websites for the current season's schedule before planning your trip.
What are Mardi Gras throws?
Mardi Gras throws are items distributed from parade floats to spectators along the route. Common throws include colorful beads, doubloons, cups, toys and krewe-themed souvenirs. In North Louisiana, catching throws is a favorite activity for children and adults alike. Spectators should remain behind safety barriers and follow parade organizers' instructions when collecting items.
What else can you do in Shreveport-Bossier during Mardi Gras?
Beyond the parades, visitors can explore Shreveport's downtown and riverfront, discover local museums and live music, and enjoy the area's food scene. Nearby Bossier City offers additional attractions and entertainment. Combining a parade with local dining, shopping or cultural activities makes it easy to turn a Mardi Gras outing into a weekend getaway.
What else can you do in Monroe and West Monroe during Mardi Gras?
Visitors can explore the historic shops and restaurants of Antique Alley in West Monroe, discover local history at the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens in Monroe, and sample regional Louisiana dishes. Pairing Mardi Gras events with these attractions gives travelers more opportunities to experience the culture and hospitality of the Ouachita River region.
