Mardi Gras isn’t just a celebration—It’s a state of mind!
Whether you're in New Orleans or bringing New Orleans to you, Fat Tuesday, on March 4th this year, is the perfect excuse to throw a colorful, high-energy, bead-throwing bash.
Want to host a Mardi Gras party that’ll have your guests saying “Laissez les bon temps rouler!” (Let the good times roll!)?
Here’s the ultimate party guide with everything you need know to throw an unforgettable Fat Tuesday celebration!
10 Pro Party Tips You Have to Try This Year for Mardi Gras
1. Set the Scene—Decorate Like Bourbon Street
Mardi Gras is all about big, bold, and bright colors. Stick to the classic purple, green, and gold theme. Fun fact: These colors represent justice, faith, and power.
Must-Have Decor:
- Beads—Hang them everywhere.
- Fleur-de-lis, feathers, and masks—Scatter them across tables.
- String lights and streamers—Go for a French Quarter feel.
- A DIY float backdrop—Use balloons, fringe, and metallic streamers for photo opportunities.
Pro Tip: Set up a masquerade mask station where guests can grab or decorate their own masks.
2. Create a Festive Mardi Gras Menu
A Mardi Gras party is nothing without delicious Cajun and Creole food.
Must-Serve Dishes:
- Jambalaya – A spicy, flavorful rice dish with shrimp, sausage, or chicken. This dish will have your taste buds dancing!
- Gumbo – A rich, savory stew packed with seafood, sausage, and okra. This is a substantial dish that will hold up to all that day-drinking!
- Cajun Crawfish Boil – Crawfish, potatoes, corn, andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning (of course!)...you name it—A great choice if you want to go all out on authentic, Cajun cooking!
- Po’boys – Overstuffed sandwiches filled with fried shrimp or roast beef. Chef's kiss.
- Beignets – These mouth-watering, powdered sugar-covered pastries are a must!
Shortcut Tip: Not up for cooking? Order from a local Cajun restaurant or grab Zapp’s Cajun Crawtators (spicy chips) for an easy snack.
3. Don’t Forget the Drinks
What’s Mardi Gras without classic New Orleans cocktails? Serve up these favorites:
- Hurricane – A fruity rum-based drink that’s a Mardi Gras staple.
- Sazerac – The official cocktail of New Orleans, made with whiskey, sugar, and bitters.
- Ramos Gin Fizz – A creamy, citrusy drink with a touch of fizz.
- Purple Voodoo Daiquiri – A frozen, grape-flavored daiquiri popular on Bourbon Street.
Non-Alcoholic Option: Try a Mardi Gras punch with pineapple juice, orange juice, and ginger ale.
4. Plan Fun Mardi Gras Games and Activities
No Mardi Gras party is complete without some fun-filled games. Keep your guests entertained with these ideas:
- King Cake Baby Hunt – Hide a tiny plastic baby in a cupcake or cake. Whoever finds it is the "King" or "Queen" of the party.
- Bead Toss Challenge – Set up a target and see who can toss the most beads onto it.
- Mardi Gras Mask Contest – Have guests create or wear the best DIY masquerade mask.
5. Set the Mood with a Killer Playlist
Mardi Gras is all about music and dancing. Make sure your party has the right New Orleans vibes with a playlist featuring:
- Dr. John – Classic New Orleans blues
- The Meters – Funky and festive
- Trombone Shorty – Jazz with a modern twist
- Rebirth Brass Band – High-energy brass band beats
- Fats Domino – A rock ‘n’ roll legend from Louisiana
Pro Tip: Want live music vibes? Stream a French Quarter jazz band on YouTube or Spotify.
6. Dress to Impress—Mardi Gras Style
Encourage guests to dress up in full Mardi Gras fashion to bring the spirit of the season to life.
Must-Wear Attire:
- Bright purple, green, and gold outfits
- Beaded necklaces (the more, the better)
- Masquerade masks for a fancy twist
- Fun hats, wigs, and feather boas
Pro Tip: Offer a “Best Dressed” prize to get everyone in the spirit.
7. Send Guests Home with a Mardi Gras Party Favor
End the night on a festive note by sending your guests home with:
- Mini King Cakes or Mardi Gras cookies
- A tiny brass instrument keychain
- A handful of Mardi Gras beads and masks
Bring the Spirit of New Orleans to Your Celebration
Hosting a Mardi Gras party is all about creating an atmosphere of fun, music, and great food.
Whether you're planning a lively gathering or an intimate celebration, these tips will help you bring the vibrant spirit of New Orleans to your home.
With the right decor, delicious food, and festive entertainment, your Fat Tuesday bash is sure to be a memorable one!
