Welcome DC to Mobile Mardi Gras

United is offering twice-daily direct flights to
America's Original Carnival Celebration

Direct to the heart of Mardi Gras

We've been doing Mardi Gras since 1703 in Mobile—and with United's twice-daily direct flights, it's easier than ever to join us. Experience legendary parades, celebratory meals & incredible hospitality. Come celebrate in the city where it all started!


Join the Carnival Celebration

Be a part of the historic celebration that has been in Mobile since 1703. Over 40 parades roll through downtown Mobile (and across the area) beginning February 2024. BONUS: Many downtown parades can be caught multiple times.


2025 Mardi Gras parade schedule & more!


Mardi Gras Day (Fat Tuesday) is March 4, 2025

... But every day is Mardi Gras!  

Did you know ...

that Mobile is the birthplace of America's original Mardi Gras? That's right, Mardi Gras originated in 1703 right here in our port city. It was revived after the Civil War when citizen Joe Cain, fed up with post-war misery, led an impromptu parade down city streets. We've been doing it ever since and we mark the annual occasion with majestic parades, colorful floats and flying MoonPies. Mardi Gras celebrations begin two and a half weeks before Fat Tuesday and the Port City comes to life. Elaborate themed floats manned by masked mystic societies, mounted police and marching bands wind through downtown Mobile and surrounding areas, entertaining nearly a million revelers each year.

Our Carnival is a family-friendly time of parties, balls, parades and revelry. Find your spot and get ready to catch Moon Pies, beads and trinkets. And not to forget the man who kept Mardi Gras alive, Joe Cain Day is observed the Sunday before Fat Tuesday. 

Start your Mardi Gras adventure in Mobile at the Mobile Carnival Museum. The Mobile Carnival Museum highlights the history of Mardi Gras in its true birthplace - Mobile, Alabama. The museum features 14 galleries, video presentations, a pictorial hallway, and an interactive float area - all in a restored historic mansion.