Discover the most vibrant family-friendly events in Baton Rouge and beyond for an unforgettable Mardi Gras weekend with our Mardi Gras Weekend Planner. From colorful parades, live music, and bead throwing, to fun-filled activities, your weekend plans are covered! Â Take advantage of the endless adventures waiting for you and your family during the magical Mardi Gras season!
Events are subject to change, so please be sure to check that events are as scheduled before heading out.
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THINGS TO DO IN BATON ROUGE THIS WEEKEND
Mardi Gras Weekend Planner
Feb 6th – 8th
Shades of Greatness: A Celebration of Black Art & Culture
(10 AM – 12 PM) The celebration begins with a morning program featuring:
Storytelling That Inspires
Music & Live Performances
Tributes to Black Leaders & Creators
Light Breakfast Provided
A Celebration of Strength & Heritage (12 PM – 5 PM) The afternoon transforms the theatre grounds into a lively cultural marketplace:
Vendor Row & Local Makers
Food Trucks & Local Eats
Live Music
Family-Friendly Fun
Community & Culture
Independence Park Theatre and Cultural Center
Feb. 7
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
https://bit.ly/ShadesofGreatness
Krewe of Artemis
Friday, February 6th, 7:00 p.m
Founded in 2001 with the mission of focusing on a family style Mardi Gras event that could be enjoyed by people of all ages.The Krewe features a full length New Orleans style night parade in downtown Baton Rouge. The annual parade is held two Fridays before Mardi Gras day. Revelers will be treated with themed throws, including the Krewe of Artemis’ signature High Heeled Shoe, along with footballs, light up tambourines, stuffed animals, float beads and lighted throws.
Krewe of Mystique de la CAPITALE
February 7th, 2 PM
Downtown Baton Rouge
This family-friendly parade begins and ends at the intersection of River Road and St. Philip Street, next to the Raising Cane’s River Center. The route traverses much of Downtown Baton Rouge.
Celebrating 47 years of parading in Baton Rouge! Come out and see the oldest Mardi Gras Krewe that is family-oriented and fun for all ages. For additional information visit  https://krewemystique.com.Â
Krewe of Orion
Saturday, February 7th – 6:30 PM
Downtown Baton Rouge
The Parade route starts at the intersection of St. Phillip Street and River Road and ends at the Raising Cane’s River Center.
Paradegoers will be treated to a line of exciting, colorfully-lighted, and tractor-pulled floats. On the floats, masked and costumed riders will throw plenty of themed parade medallions, Krewe of Orion signature footballs, lighted throws, and beads. Marching bands, dance groups, and marching units (all of 20 members or more) will be among the great sights and sounds at this wonderful family-oriented parade.
I Heart My Zoo Day
Join us for a Valentine extravaganza! This love-filled day includes heart-themed enrichments for our beloved animals throughout the day! (Last entry: 4 p.m.)
Krewe of Ascension Mambo – Gonzales
Saturday, February 7th at 2:00 PM
Gonzales, La | Parade Route Begins on Irma Blvd and Ends at the corner of Hwy 44 and Hwy 30
Saturday, February 7th at 1:00 PM
Krewe of Mid City GrasÂ
Sunday, February 8th, 2 – 4 PM
Mid City Gras is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to showcasing the vibrant and diverse community of Mid City.
Family GrasÂ
February 6 & 7, 2026
Mardi Gras Plaza, 3300 block of Veterans Memorial Boulevard, across from Lakeside Shopping Center
Located on Mardi Gras Plaza in the 3300 block of Veterans Memorial Boulevard, directly across from Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie, Family Gras is a FREE, family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration packed with fun for all ages.
This beloved event brings together the magic of Mardi Gras parades, delicious local cuisine, vibrant art, a dedicated Kids’ Court, and outdoor concerts featuring both national recording artists and Louisiana favorites.
Families can browse the Art Market for Mardi Gras accessories, hair bows, hats, hand-crafted jewelry, and more. The Kids’ Court offers activities just for kids ages 12 and under, including face painting, games, and interactive fun.
When hunger hits, festival food vendors will be serving up crowd favorites like jambalaya, gumbo, seafood, BBQ, classic fair food, and more.
And when the music wraps up, don’t rush out — stick around for an up-close view of the Mardi Gras parades as they roll right in front of the Family Gras festival site. It’s one of the best ways for families to experience parade excitement without the stress!
We hope you enjoy our list of weekend events and find great ways to have fun and make memories with your family in Baton Rouge. Happy parading!!
View our comprehensive Family Friendly Mardi Gras Guide HERE!
