Mardi Gras 2025 Festivities Kick Off Across the U.S. and Beyond

Celebrations culminate on Fat Tuesday, March 4, with parades, music, and cultural events in New Orleans, Bay Area, and other cities.

Mardi Gras, rooted in ancient traditions and Christian observance, peaks on March 4, marking the day before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent.
New Orleans remains the epicenter of Mardi Gras celebrations, featuring parades, floats, and music from krewes like Zulu and Rex on Fat Tuesday.
San Francisco Bay Area offers diverse Mardi Gras events, including parades, live music, and cultural celebrations in neighborhoods like North Beach and the Mission District.
Other U.S. cities, such as Oakland, Napa, and Petaluma, host their own unique Mardi Gras events, blending local traditions with New Orleans-inspired festivities.
Mardi Gras' global reach is celebrated in cities worldwide, reflecting its rich history and cultural significance stemming from French and Catholic influences.