New Orleans Mardi Gras 2024: How to Prepare - Pearl River Swamp Tours, New Orleans (2024)

Mardi Gras is a thrilling celebration, but navigating the festivities demands strategic transportation planning. If you opt to drive, exercise patience and adhere to parking guidelines. Avoid blocking hydrants, driveways, or fire lanes, and follow specific rules for parking on streets. Remember, oversized vehicles are prohibited in residential areas, and if you encounter issues like booting, call (504) 599-5652.

Keep in mind that two hours before and after parades, parking restrictions apply along the parade routes. Follow posted signs to ensure compliance. If you’re looking to utilize New Orleans public transportation during Mardi Gras, consider these options:

• Streetcar Or Bus: Be aware that regular schedules are adjusted during Carnival season. Plan ahead using RTA’s Mardi Gras Guide and the GoMobile app. Buses equipped with bike racks offer a convenient option for combined bus and bike travel.
• Biking: Bring your bike or rent a Blue Bike for nimble navigation through the crowds.
• Taxi, Rideshare, Or Pedicab: Opt for taxis, Uber, or Lyft for proximity to parade routes. Pedicabs, found throughout the French Quarter, offer a unique travel experience.

• What to Wear to Mardi Gras: Embrace the lively Mardi Gras spirit with a festive costume. Whether it’s an elaborate ensemble or the classic purple, green, and gold, ensure it’s comfortable for the day-long celebration.
• Beads? Not Necessary: Leave the beads behind, unless you have a favorite strand you’d like to include as part of your Mardi Gras outfit. Countless free throws, from beads to trinkets, are generously distributed during the parades.
• Seating and Supplies: Portable chairs, coolers, or even a ladder for a unique view can enhance your experience. Choose based on your plan – resting in one spot or following the parade.
• Easy-to-Carry Bag: A decent-sized shoulder bag or backpack is essential for stashing parade loot. Consider a small fanny pack for essentials if you’re not keeping the throws.
• Tissues & Hand Sanitizer: With limited access to bathrooms, pack tissues and hand sanitizer to stay comfortable throughout the day.
• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Louisiana’s Mardi Gras weather can vary. Dress in light layers for the daytime, and bring a jacket or sweater for cooler evening celebrations.
• Rain & Sun Protection: Be prepared for Louisiana’s unpredictable weather. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection. In case of rain, opt for a practical poncho or raincoat.
• Cash & Change: Street vendors may not accept cards, so carry cash and coins in a secure pocket or pouch.Never leave cash exposed or unattended.
• “Laissez le Bons Temps Rouler” Attitude: Mardi Gras is a celebration of life. Bring a carefree spirit, dance to the parade’s rhythm, and enjoy the festivities.

Ensuring a safe and enjoyable Mardi Gras experience involves a few key considerations. Keep your group together by designating a meeting spot and taking a “safety selfie” at the start of the day for easy identification. In case of a lost child, inform the nearest public safety official or use the designated lost children stations along the parade route.

When reveling in parades, stay behind barricades, heed public safety officials, and resist crossing between floats or chasing throws near passing floats. Opt for watching from the sidelines, avoiding contact with marching bands or walking groups. Remember, “throwbacks” are not allowed, and exercise caution around sanitation crews after parades.

Prioritize travel safety by refraining from drinking and driving. Plan for heavy traffic, be patient, and drive attentively. Respect pedestrian rights, keep bike lanes clear, and provide space when passing cyclists. Stay vigilant for suspicious activity, and report anything unusual to public safety officials promptly. By embracing these safety measures, you contribute to a secure and joyful Mardi Gras celebration for everyone involved.

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