If you are a first-timer to Mardi Gras, or you have heard about this beloved season and just want to see what the hype is about, Mobile Bay is a great place to be this year! For us locals, Mardi Gras is a cherished tradition (and sport!), and knowing the ins, outs and in-betweens is what makes it so fun! So if you want to join in and celebrate one of the most fun – and interesting – times of the year, here is the guide for you.
Prepare In Advance!
When it comes down to it, you will need to know when and where you need to be for the most optimal experience down here. Go online and look up updated parade schedules (some are moved around daily because of our ever-changing weather patterns), as well as where to park for the upcoming events. One rule stays true: Be early! Parades are crowded with locals and huge waves of out-of-state visitors, so it is never too early to go and stake out – or tailgate – at the best spots. Streets will close off 30 minutes before the parade begins and the funnel of traffic will have you missing out. The pros know this, but now so do you!
Find The Optimal Spot
To create the ultimate Mardi Gras experience, it is important to try and find the spot where the most activity takes place. Some like to fight for the spots closest to where the parade will begin. This is mostly with the reasoning they will get the most from beginning to end as most parades will do two or three loops. Others like to go to what we call the Mardi Gras trees where the branches help collect (and protect) you from the beads and toys thrown your way.
What To Scream For
Moon Pies! Moon Pies! Moon Pies! Outside of the artsy and hilarious beads, the locals and visitors go crazy for our multi-flavored, marshmallow stuffed moon pies. Kids love to collect candies, stuffed toys, frisbees, and the traditional Mardi Gras coins as well. Speaking of kids, they are a sure way to get some of the “good stuff” by holding them up! Light-up signs are also a fun attention-grabber, so engineer one with your favorite wants before you head on down. Note: Make sure you have plenty of bags to hold your loot!
Leave Safely!
When the parade floats stop coming and that massive crowd is all leaving at once, make sure you either leave before they do or just wait it out! It is too easy to lose your people or kids in an energized crowd like that, so our suggestion is to just sit back, relax, and enjoy the moon pies and candy you collected. Since there is an open container allowance and you came extra prepared reading this, just kick back with the crew and take your time so you are not fighting the rush hour of people!
Mardi Gras is a cherished tradition for all to enjoy, but those that know what to expect always have more fun. Make sure to visit Mobile, Alabama, and look online for the most recent schedules. Grab your friends and family and get in on the action you will be sure will be an event to remember! Laissez les bons temps rouler!
Shop Local, Eat Local, Live Local 