Family Gras 2026

Family Gras - Friday, Feb 6, and Saturday, Feb 7, 2026

Family Gras is a FREE celebration of Carnival and family that takes place two weekends before Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras Day), and is located just ten minutes from downtown New Orleans in the suburb of Metairie. It takes place on Veterans Memorial Boulevard, across from Lakeside Shopping Center. 

It’s big family fun just outside the Big Easy! Bring your kids to enjoy the traditional spectacle of Mardi Gras parades, authentic New Orleans cuisine, local art at the Art Market, a Kids' Court with face painting and interactive games, and free outdoor concerts by both national artists and Louisiana's own. 

---

Of course, a big part of Family Gras are the fabulous parades rolling directly next to the Family Gras festivities.

The Flambeau Food Court vendors "cook up" a good time with such favorites as jambalaya, crawfish pasta, muffulettas, pizza, and gator-on-a-stick, plus desserts like bread pudding and king cake.

 

Event Details

• Dates: January 29–30, 2027
• Time: Friday from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (and Saturday)
• Location: Mardi Gras Plaza, 3300 block of Veterans Memorial Boulevard (across from Lakeside Shopping Center) in Metairie, Louisiana.
• Cost: Free admission. 

What to Expect

• Live Concerts: Free outdoor performances by national and local musical acts on the main stages.
• Parades: Catch local Carnival krewes rolling right past the festival site.
• Kids' Court: Interactive games and family-focused activities for children age 12 and under.
• Art Market & Food: Local crafts, jewelry, art, and festival food vendors.

Book your hotel room now and  Reserve your Mardi Gras package