Where to celebrate Mardi Gras beyond New Orleans, including Mobile, St. Louis and more

Where is Mardi Gras celebrated outside of New Orleans?

You don't have to go to the Big Easy to experience all the fun. Here are four other U.S. cities that celebrate Mardi Gras in style.

Mardi Gras in Mobile, Alabama

Home of the first Mardi Gras celebration in America, Mobile proudly continues to honor long established traditions with parties, masked balls, and parades. Before the revelry, begin your adventure at the Mobile Carnival Museum, which highlights the history of local Mardi Gras traditions.

In 2024, more than 40 parades start to roll out on Jan. 26, with the most taking place between Feb. 11-13. Check out Mobile Mask for updated parade schedules, route maps, and general information.

Other ways to enjoy the fun include the Mobile Porch Parade of decorated houses. Honor one of Mobile’s favorite sons, the late Jimmy Buffett with a stay at The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa, where he used to watch the parades roll by when he was growing up.