I visited New Orleans for Mardi Gras in 2024 and here is my list of do’s and don’ts.

Do:

• Stay in the French Quarter - I stayed at The Pelham Hotel and it was a great location, just make sure you book an exterior room. Everything I wanted was within walking distance except obviously the airport.

• Download the parade tracker app so you know where the parades are each day. This will help you make a plan, but also not get stuck by a parade

• This one depends on how long you are staying, but plan other things to do. The city is full of cool activities. We took a brunch riverboat cruise while we were there.

• Make reservations for meals. The waitlists and lines can get long

• Venture down to Bourbon Street at least once. It’s a lot, but it’s a cool vibe

• Dress up in whatever you are comfortable with. Whether that is a wig or a full-on costume, anything goes at Mardi Gras.

• Bring a tote bag to hold throws you have collected from the parades. There will be more than you think.

• Bring a little cash. Some restaurants are still cash-only

• Keep a close eye on all your belongings. I never felt unsafe, but the streets are packed and anything can happen. I suggest a belt bag or cross-body purse to hold all your belongings.

• Visit Frenchman Street. This is more of a locals hangout than Burban Street and we found some cool places.

Don’t:

• Plan a trip for five days. It’s like going to Vegas, five days is too long.

• Make a jam-packed schedule. Have a loose plan, but know that the parades might move faster or slower than you thought, or you might be having fun at one spot and not want to move on to the next.

• Pick up anything that touches the ground. Ever. Just trust me.

• Don’t forget to have fun. Mardi Gras is like nothing I have ever experienced before. Have fun and enjoy it.