Mardi Gras - New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

WHAT: Mardi Gras

WHERE: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

'Laissez les bons temps rouler' translates to 'Let the Good Times Roll' and is the motto of the New Orleans Mardi Gras and what has been called one of the wildest parties in the United States.

Every February, the streets of New Orleans erupt into a spectacular celebration of parades, music, costumes, and tradition as Mardi Gras takes over the city. Best known for its elaborate floats, masked revellers, and infectious atmosphere, Mardi Gras is one of the world's most famous festivals and the biggest celebration on Louisiana's calendar.

Let the Good Times Roll

"Laissez les bons temps rouler", or "Let the Good Times Roll", has become the unofficial motto of Mardi Gras and perfectly captures the spirit of the celebration. While the festival is famous for its lively parties and colourful parades, Mardi Gras is deeply rooted in centuries-old religious tradition and community celebration.

Visitors are encouraged to embrace the festive atmosphere by dressing in the official Mardi Gras colours of purple, green, and gold, symbolising justice, faith, and power. Throughout the city, marching bands, street performers, musicians, and elaborately decorated floats create an unforgettable carnival atmosphere.

A Tradition Before Lent

Mardi Gras, meaning "Fat Tuesday" in French, marks the final day before the beginning of Lent, the Christian season of reflection, prayer, and fasting leading to Easter. Historically, it became a time to indulge in rich food, celebration, and festivities before the more solemn period that followed.

Although its origins are rooted in Catholic tradition, modern Mardi Gras welcomes people of every faith, culture, and background. Today, it is as much a celebration of New Orleans' unique identity as it is of its religious heritage.

The Krewes of New Orleans

One of Mardi Gras' defining traditions is the city's krewes, social organisations responsible for organising the famous parades, elaborate floats, masked balls, and community celebrations. Many of today's best-known krewes date back more than a century, each contributing its own traditions, themes, and signature throws, including the iconic strings of colourful beads collected by spectators lining the parade routes.
From the spectacular floats and marching bands to the music echoing through the French Quarter, Mardi Gras is a celebration unlike any other. Whether you're catching beads from a passing krewe, dancing in the streets, or simply soaking up the extraordinary atmosphere, each place tells a story. In New Orleans, it begins with "Laissez les bons temps rouler" and ends with one of the most unique and unforgettable celebrations.