Let the good times roll when you celebrate Mardi Gras Texas-style!
Sure, New Orleans is the Mardi Gras capital of the US. The tradition in New Orleans dates back to 1699, when French settlers in Louisiana celebrated this traditionally indulgent occasion that marks the beginning of the Lenten season in the Christian faith. Mardi Gras, French for Fat Tuesday, celebrations ebbed and flowed for years in New Orleans until it because the grand festival we know today. Although Fat Tuesday is only a single day, the Mardi Gras season is usually celebrated for multiple weeks leading up to Lent.
The season of Mardi Gras is celebrated throughout the world, with large, carnival-like celebrations happening in countries such as Brazil, Italy, Germany and more. The idea is that celebrants, who will be giving up something they like for Lent in a tribute to Jesus’ sacrifice during this season, will indulge in their favorite things, possibly to excess, before practicing self-discipline and doing without for 40 days until Easter. Celebrations generally include parades, parties, festivals, dancing and more, and many involve elaborate costumes, masks, beads and the like. Although Louisiana is the only state in the US where Mardi Gras is an official holiday, you certainly don’t have to live in Louisiana to enjoy the merriment of the season.
Where to celebrate Mardi Gras in Texas
Galveston
To celebrate Mardi Gras in Texas, look no further than Galveston, whose celebration is the largest in Texas and is a two-week party leading up to Fat Tuesday. With more than 20 parades and countless concerts (featuring bands such as Gin Blossoms and the Eli Young Band), lots of fun is definitely in store. Keep your eyes out for beads being flung from balconies and get ready to have a good time.
Beaumont
Now in its 34th year, Mardi Gras Southeast Texas is a great option for Louisiana-style fun in Texas. Party-goers will love the carnival with dozens of fun rides as well as the dog races and live entertainment. Enjoy four days of action-packed fun in Beaumont leading up to Fat Tuesday, including parades that will have you forgetting you aren’t in New Orleans this year.
Kemah
For a fun spin on a traditional Mardi Gras parade, head to Kemah for Yachty Gras. This year’s float parade takes place on February 3 and gives Mardi Gras attendees a chance to see a parade on the water. Enjoy this fun twist on a Mardi Gras staple and don’t forget to bring your beads!
San Antonio
If you’re in central Texas this Mardi Gras season, look no further than San Antonio for a fun celebration. On February 10th, watch as a Mardi Gras parade overtakes the Riverwalk with fun and festivities suitable for the whole family. Catch the floats as they travel across the water, then hang around for the live entertainment, food trucks and more. Get ready to catch some beads!
Houston lodging
When you’re ready to party for Mardi Gras, you’ll need a comfortable spot to crash at night and sleep off your fun days. San Jacinto Riverfront RV Resort in Highlands, Texas, is just the spot for a great night’s rest. Located an easy drive from Kemah, Galveston and Beaumont, San Jacinto RV has a ton of amenities to make you comfortable- and possibly to make you never want to leave! With two swimming pools, fishing piers, a fitness room, a basketball court and more, San Jacinto Riverfront RV is a great spot to call your home away from home during Mardi Gras season and all year round in south Texas!
