New Orleans · Local advice
When is Carnival?
Carnival runs from January 6 through Mardi Gras day, the Tuesday 47 days before Easter. The two busiest parade weekends are called the first weekend and second weekend. Joan of Arc parades on January 6, and walking parades and float parades fill the season. Choose your year in the calendar for dates, including events outside those weekends.
Plan your outing
- Choose a year before booking travel: Mardi Gras moves with Easter, while Carnival begins on January 6.
- Use the first and second weekend calendars to compare dates. Walking parades and streetcar celebrations also take place earlier in the season.
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