If you’re looking for an unforgettable Mardi Gras experience this season, Alexandria and Pineville, Louisiana, have everything you need to celebrate in true Louisiana fashion. From vibrant parades and charming local shops to family-friendly activities, this twin-city area is a must-visit destination for Mardi Gras enthusiasts.
Parades, Parades, and More Parades!
No Mardi Gras celebration is complete without a dazzling parade, and the Alexandria and Pineville communities offer several exciting options to enjoy the season.
– The Children’s Parade: Held in downtown Alexandria on Saturday, March 1, 2025, this parade is perfect for families. With whimsical floats, costumed performers, and plenty of throws, it’s a delight for little ones.
– The Krewes Parade: Coming up on Sunday, March 2, 2025 ,the crown jewel of Mardi Gras in Alexandria, this spectacular parade features creative floats, lively music, and beads flying through the air. Be sure to grab your spot early along the route for the best views.
– Classic Cars and Cheerleaders Parade: Mark your calendars for Friday, February 28, 2025 for the Alexandria Mardi Gras Association Classic Cars and Cheerleaders Parade. This parade showcases beautifully restored vehicles that will take you on a journey through automotive history, adding a nostalgic touch to Mardi Gras fun.
– Night of Lights Parade: The City of Pineville is kicking off the Mardi Gras season in grand style with its first annual “Night of Lights” Mardi Gras Parade. This event will light up the night as festive floats, marching bands, and colorful krewes make their way from the Riverfront, through Downtown Pineville, and up Main Street to Louisiana College. Mark your calendars for 7:00 PM on February 21, 2025, and get ready to experience the magic of Mardi Gras under the lights!
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the AMGA parades offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Central Louisiana.
Dress to Impress: Mardi Gras Boutiques
Mardi Gras isn’t just about parades; it’s also the perfect time to explore Alexandria and Pineville’s unique shops and boutiques. Stroll through the historic downtown areas and discover one-of-a-kind finds:
– Les Amis Studio & Boutique: A chic destination for Mardi Gras-inspired clothing and accessories to keep you parade-ready.
– Sassy Girl Boutique: This boutique offers festive Mardi Gras clothing, jewelry, and accessories, so you can step out in style for the celebrations.
– Southern Accents: A must-visit for stylish Mardi Gras fashion and unique finds.
– Hoity Toity: Discover upscale fashion and accessories perfect for celebrating in style.
– Select Trends: Stay on-trend with their latest Mardi Gras apparel and accessories.
– Mumzies: A charming boutique with festive fashion and accessories for the season.
– Terra Home & Blest Nest: Browse beautiful home items to decorate your space for Mardi Gras.
Explore our local boutiques and let them inspire your Mardi Gras look – you’re sure to find something that captures the spirit of the season!
Savor the Flavor: King Cakes and Mardi Gras Drinks
To make your celebration even sweeter, local bakeries, bars, and restaurants are serving up Mardi Gras-themed treats and drinks. Indulge in the festive flavors of Louisiana with colorful king cakes, freshly baked to perfection, or enjoy a Mardi Gras-inspired cocktail from local hotspots.
– Atwood’s Bakery: Known for their delicious and beautifully decorated king cakes, Atwood’s is a must-stop for a traditional Mardi Gras treat.
– Southbound Spirits: A favorite for Mardi Gras-themed daiquiris, drinks, and festive merchandise to toast the season.
– Sweet Joy Bakery: This local gem offers a variety of creative king cakes to make your Mardi Gras experience extra sweet.
– Little Cakes with Big Attitude: Specializing in king cake cupcakes, perfect for a personal treat or sharing with friends.
– Doce Vida Brazilian Bakery: Offering delicious, authentic king cakes and pastries that bring a unique twist to the Mardi Gras tradition.
– Trios Alexandria: Known for their creative and festive cocktails, a must-visit for a celebratory Mardi Gras drink.
Don’t miss the chance to indulge in these sweet and festive delights – they’re the perfect way to make your Mardi Gras celebration truly unforgettable!
Don’t Miss the Alexandria Zoo Mardi Gras Party
A unique twist on Mardi Gras fun can be found at the Alexandria Zoo Mardi Gras Party. This family-friendly event combines the excitement of Mardi Gras with festive decorations, live music, and special activities for kids, making it a perfect outing for families during the season. This year’s Mardi Gras Party will be Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 1 – 3 PM.
31st Annual Taste of Mardi Gras
Be sure to mark your calendar for the 31st Annual Taste of Mardi Gras event being held Friday, February 28, 2025 at 7:00 PM. This popular gathering brings together the best of local cuisine with a Mardi Gras twist. Guests can savor a variety of dishes from area while enjoying live music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to experience the flavors and fun of Mardi Gras in a laid-back setting.
Pineville’s Mardi Gras on the Red
On Saturday, March 1st, Pineville will host its first-ever Mardi Gras on the Red, a true Courir de Mardi Gras celebration. Festivities will take place from 11:30 AM to 6:00 PM on the Pineville Riverfront.
This family-friendly event will feature:
- Local vendors showcasing their unique creations
- Food trucks serving up delicious bites
- Live Zydeco music from two incredible bands:
- Leroy Thomas and the Zydeco Roadrunners
- Gerard Delafose and the Zydeco Gators
Come together for a day of music, food, and fun to celebrate Mardi Gras in true Pineville style!
Plan Your Visit
Mardi Gras season in Alexandria/Pineville offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking to catch beads at a parade, shop for unique treasures, or savor local flavors.
With the exciting lineup of events and the charm of these twin cities, your Mardi Gras celebration will be one to remember.
So grab your beads, pack your bags, and get ready to explore everything Mardi Gras in Alexandria/Pineville has to offer!
For more information on finding local businesses, planning your visit, and more, check out www.explorealexandriapineville.com.
Mardi De Lis Paint Event
Join us in showing your Mardi Gras spirit with a painting. An artist will guide you step by step in a pre-sketched painting, from beginning to final masterpiece. The painting […]
Mardi Gras Mask Craft & Sip
Unleash your creativity at our self-guided, DIY Mardi Gras mask decorating evening! Get ready to transform a paper Mache mask into a mesmerizing masterpiece using vibrant paints, feathers, sequins, jewels, […]
AMGA Classic Cars and Cheerleaders parade
The Classic Cars and Cheerleaders Parade will kick off Alexandria’s family-oriented Mardi Gras weekend. The Classic Cars and Cheerleaders follows the same route as the Children’s Parade in downtown Alexandria. […]
31st Annual Taste of Mardi Gras
Randolph Riverfront Center 707 2nd Street, Alexandria, LA, United StatesJoin us for an evening filled with incredible food, lively music, and the spirit of Mardi Gras! Click here for tickets. The Louisiana Restaurant Association proudly presents the 30th Annual […]
AMGA Children’s Parade
Join the fun and festivities at the Alexandria Mardi Gras Association’s Children’s Parade! This family-friendly parade is a beloved tradition, featuring creative floats, lively music, and smiling faces as children […]
Mardi Gras on the Red
Kick off the weekend with a zydeco band dance party on the river! Enjoy live music, indulge in delicious eats from food trucks, and explore a variety of local vendors. […]
Mardi Gras Party
Laissez les bons temps rouler! Alexandria Zoo is rolling out the purple, green, and gold for a family-friendly Mardi Gras Party. Indulge in complimentary king cake courtesy of Atwood's Bakery […]
AMGA Krewes Parade
Get ready for an unforgettable celebration at the Alexandria Mardi Gras Association’s Krewes Parade! This signature event showcases dazzling floats, vibrant costumes, and plenty of beads as local krewes parade […]