North Louisiana Mardi Gras: Shreveport and Monroe

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 — two-legged or four! This parade of pups in their quirky Mardi Gras costumes will surely bring a smile to your face. And it’s for a great cause, as it benefits abused, neglected and homeless animals. 

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.