Fat Tuesday 2026: Lafayette and Acadiana Ramp Up for Weeklong Mardi Gras Celebrations

Mardi Gras falls on Feb. 17, 2026, but a string of parades and festivals across Lafayette and Acadiana means the party is already underway. From downtown Lafayette processions to Cajun field carnivals and a dog-friendly Pawdi Gras, organizers have scheduled a mix of family-focused events and late-night music for the run-up to Fat Tuesday 2026.

Weekend schedule and parade highlights

The Scott Mardi Gras Parade is set for Saturday, Feb. 7, joining a slate of local festivities that stretch into the following weekend. Key events to watch:

• Krewe of Allons “Kick-Off” Parade: Begins at Pontiac Point in Lafayette at 6: 30 p. m. ET and winds through downtown before proceeding down Johnston Street to North College Drive, finishing at Cajun Field. Expect the Ragin’ Cajuns’ flair and late-evening crowds along the route.
• La Festival de Mardi Gras at Cajun Field: A full carnival experience with rides, food vendors and live music. Gates open at 5: 00 p. m. ET on Friday and at noon ET on Saturday. Friday’s lineup begins at 6: 00 p. m. ET with DJ Rex, followed by Mike Dopsie and Entourage at 6: 30 p. m. ET and Adam Leger at 9: 30 p. m. ET. Saturday entertainment kicks off at 4: 00 p. m. ET with DJ Rex, LVVRS at 6: 30 p. m. ET and The Chee Weez at 9: 30 p. m. ET.
• Cajun Mardi Gras Festival in Eunice: The festival opens Friday evening with a pair of stages hosting bands through the night. Friday acts include Mais Oui! at 6: 00 p. m. ET, Four Horses at 6: 30 p. m. ET, Swampland Revival at 8: 00 p. m. ET and Wayne Toups at 8: 30 p. m. ET. Saturday’s lineup runs from midmorning into the evening, with live music across both stages.
• 25th Annual Children’s Courir de Mardi Gras (Church Point): A long-running Cajun tradition that begins with sign-ups at 10: 00 a. m. ET and rolls at 1: 00 p. m. ET from the Saddle Tramp Rider’s Club. The event emphasizes heritage and community participation.
• Youngsville Parade: Starts at 11: 00 a. m. ET at the Public Works building on Chemin Metairie and follows a route down Chemin Metairie, turning onto East Milton Road and Bonin Road before finishing at Iberia Street and the clock roundabout. Roads will close by 9: 00 a. m. ET; public parking is available at the Youngsville Sports Complex.
• Children’s Parade (downtown Lafayette): Steps off at 12: 30 p. m. ET from the corner of West Vermilion and Lafayette streets and rolls toward Cajun Field, featuring several youth krewes.
• Pawdi Gras Dog Parade: A free walking parade for pet owners and their four-legged companions begins at 2: 00 p. m. ET at Adopted Dog Brewing, with registration opening at 1: 30 p. m. ET for participants.

Family rules, safety and practical tips

Organizers are emphasizing safety and crowd management at multiple events. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at La Festival de Mardi Gras, and a clear-bag policy will be in effect at Cajun Field with mandatory screening through metal detectors at entry points. Fans are advised to allow extra time for entry and to follow posted bag and safety rules to speed access.

For paradegoers, arriving early is recommended—particularly in towns where road closures begin well before kickoff. Bring weather-appropriate gear, claim a spot along the route with clear sightlines for kids, and coordinate a meeting point in case your group separates. For evening events, expect amplified sound and large crowds; plan transportation and parking in advance.

What to expect as Fat Tuesday 2026 approaches

With Fat Tuesday falling on Feb. 17, the next two weekends act as a crescendo of events in Acadiana. Whether you’re chasing throws from traditional krewes, enjoying live Cajun and zydeco acts, or taking part in family parades and pet-friendly celebrations, the region will be in full Mardi Gras mode. Check event start times listed in ET, arrive early, and prepare for an extended period of revelry that celebrates both contemporary festival culture and deep-rooted local traditions.