City Leaders Say “Mardi Gras Is Happening.”

Get those ladders ready! Start planning your costume! On Tuesday, November 9, Beau Tidwell, the director of communications for the City of New Orleans, murmured the words we all hoped to hear. “Barring some completely catastrophic change in the numbers, Mardi Gras is happening,” he said.

He said that two weeks after the Krewe of Boo parade on October 23, the City saw no spikes in COVID-19 infection cases, deaths or hospitalizations.

His statement confirmed earlier comments from Mayor LaToya Cantrell, acknowledging that plans were underway to hold a full Carnival celebration in 2022.

Tidwell went on to say, however, that the coronavirus remains a concern. The City recommends Mardi Gras revelers get their shots before they join the crowds.

He also warned, “Just because masks are gone doesn’t mean rules are gone.” At the current time, you’re still required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test to visit a restaurant or bar.

The City has indicated that proof of vaccination or a negative test mandate will probably stay in effect at least through Carnival season which lasts from King’s Day on January 6 to Fat Tuesday on March 1. 

View 2022 Parade Schedule