Central Louisiana Mardi Gras Parades: Alexandria & Natchitoches

Every community in Louisiana has their own way to get into the Carnival spirit — each with their own sound to the joyous music and their own flavor to the great Louisiana tastes. Central Louisiana offers your family all the excitement of parades and festivities while keeping the small-town charm that makes this area special. Check out what you can expect of a Central Louisiana Mardi Gras below.

Alexandria Mardi Gras Parades

Alexandria kicks off its Mardi Gras celebration with cheer — cheerleaders that is. The annual Classic Cars & College Cheerleaders Parade has become a favorite of the community. Classic car owners meander through the streets of downtown Alexandria showcasing style from another time. Cheerleaders from Louisiana colleges and universities perform throughout the streets, getting the crowd hyped up and ready for the parade.

The Krewes Parade is the showstopping moment of Alexandria’s Mardi Gras. What began with a handful of floats has grown to a collection of more than 20 floats and krewes taking to the streets in a highly decorated presentation. The themed floats, elaborate costumes and generous throws will have you shouting “Throw me something, mista!” before you know it.

For more about Mardi Gras in Alexandria, visit the Alexandria Mardi Gras Association.

Mardi Gras in Natchitoches

Carnival gets adorable in Natchitoches with the Krewe of Wag-uns. This walking parade is aimed at families, with young children and pets being the stars of the show. Locals decorate wagons and costume their families for this festive march. And you can’t miss the pet costumes (think: pugs in tutus and chihuahuas in tiaras). It’s a sight to be seen!

For a more traditional take on Mardi Gras in Natchitoches, check out the Krewe of Dionysos. This evening parade takes to the streets with elaborate floats, bright lights and revelry. Named for the Roman god of good times, you’re sure to catch the Carnival spirit on this parade route.

For more about Mardi Gras in Natchitoches, visit the Natchitoches Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Other Things to Do in Central Louisiana

Spend the weekend strolling the historic districts of Central Louisiana. In Natchitoches, the 33-block historic district features brick-paved streets filled with souvenir shops, local restaurants and art galleries. And don’t forget to pick up the city’s favorite snack from Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant. Along Alexandria’s riverfront district, you’ll find museums like the Alexandria Museum of Art, home to an extensive collection of North Louisiana folk art.