Let the Good Times Roll: Celebrate Mardi Gras This Weekend
Mardi Gras season is here, bringing vibrant colors, festive music, and plenty of reasons to celebrate! While Las Vegas might not be the first place that comes to mind for this iconic holiday, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the spirit of New Orleans right here in the desert.
What is Mardi Gras?
MARDI GRAS can be traced to medieval Europe and is believed to have arrived in North America in 1699. It is the practice of indulgence before the period of fasting and abstinence that starts the next day on Ash Wednesday, signifying the start of Lent.
Probably the oldest and most famous North American celebration of Mardi Gras takes place in New Orleans, with parades, parties and a variety of other festivities.This year, Mardi Gras officially falls on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, but the party starts early with events happening all weekend long. From parades to live music and delicious Cajun-inspired food, it’s the perfect excuse to break out your beads and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Local Celebrations
While Las Vegas doesn’t host a traditional Mardi Gras parade, you can still enjoy the spirit of Carnival Downtown:
- Fremont Street Experience: Downtown Las Vegas will be alive with Mardi Gras energy, featuring live music, street performers, and plenty of beads flying through the air. Head down for free entertainment and festive cocktails.
Make a Quick Getaway
Looking for something even more memorable? These nearby events might be worth the drive:
- Mardi Gras 2025 at Pahrump Nugget Events Center
- Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
- Location: Pahrump, NV (about an hour from Las Vegas)
- Enjoy live music, authentic Cajun food, and festive decorations in this lively celebration just outside the city.
- 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Parade in Baker
- Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
- Location: Baker, NV
- Start your morning with a colorful parade and family-friendly festivities in this small-town celebration.
Create Your Own Celebration
Prefer to stay in? Bring the party to your own home with these ideas:
- Cajun Feast: Cook up a pot of gumbo or jambalaya and serve classic King Cake for dessert. The King Cake is a Mardi Gras staple — a sweet, cinnamon-filled pastry decorated in purple, green, and gold icing. Traditionally, a small plastic baby is hidden inside, symbolizing luck and prosperity for whoever finds it. The lucky person is often tasked with hosting the next Mardi Gras celebration!
- Beads & Bubbles Brunch: Invite friends over for mimosas, beignets, and plenty of beads.
- DIY Mask Decorating: Perfect for kids or adults, set up a craft station to make festive masks with feathers, glitter, and sequins.
However You Celebrate — Make It Fun!
Whether you’re heading out to a local event or hosting your own Mardi Gras soirée, the most important part of the celebration is to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and indulge a little. Dress in purple, green, and gold, crank up some jazz music, and let the good times roll!
Laissez les bons temps rouler!
