What are the best ways to celebrate Mardi Gras in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

Celebrate Mardi Gras in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach with family-friendly parades, vibrant floats, and delicious Gulf Coast cuisine. Must-see events include the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade at 10:00 AM, the Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade at 2:00 PM, and LuLu’s Golf Cart and Boat Parades. Don’t forget to enjoy a traditional King Cake from Rouses and experience the rich Mardi Gras history that started in nearby Mobile, Alabama. Plan your trip today to join the festivities!

A Brief History of Mardi Gras in Mobile

Mardi Gras arrived in America with French settlers in Mobile, Alabama, which was the first capital of French Louisiana. The inaugural celebration in Mobile featured masked balls and small parades. Over time, the tradition expanded to include larger parades, marching bands, and elaborate floats. Mobile's Mardi Gras is known for its sophistication and family-friendly atmosphere, which influenced celebrations along the Gulf Coast.

Learn more about the history of Mardi Gras in Mobile, Al by clicking here!.

 

Mardi Gras Parades in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Plan ahead to catch these must-see parades in 2025:

• Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade
  ? March 4th, 2025 | 10:00 AM
  Full Details for this parade can be found here
   
• Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade
  ? March 4th, 2025 | 2:00 PM
  Full parade detais can be found here.
  
   
• Lulu’s Mardi Gras Golf Cart Parade
  ? March 1st, 2025 | 1:00 PM
   
• Lulu’s Mardi Gras Boat Parade
  ? March 4th, 2025 | 4:00 PM
  Full Details for events at LuLu’s can be found here.

Celebrate the Season

Mardi Gras in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offers a laid-back vibe, delicious Gulf Coast cuisine, and plenty of family-friendly fun. Don’t forget to grab a King Cake from Rouses to complete your celebration!

Whether you’re catching beads at a parade, enjoying live music, or soaking up the beautiful coastal views, Mardi Gras here is a can’t-miss experience.

Laissez les bons temps rouler – let the good times roll!

For more information about Mardi Gras events and accommodations, click here to plan your trip.

Mardi Gras in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach — FAQs

What is the history of Mardi Gras in Mobile, Alabama?

Mardi Gras began in America with French settlers in Mobile, the first capital of French Louisiana. Celebrations started with masked balls and small parades and evolved into elaborate floats, marching bands, and family-friendly festivities that inspired Gulf Coast traditions.

When is the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade?

The Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade takes place on March 4, 2025, at 10:00 AM. It features vibrant floats, bead-throwing, and family-friendly fun along the main parade route.

When is the Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade?

The Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade rolls on March 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM. Visitors can enjoy colorful floats, marching bands, and a festive coastal atmosphere.

What Mardi Gras parades happen at LuLu’s?

LuLu’s hosts two unique parades: the Mardi Gras Golf Cart Parade on March 1, 2025, at 1:00 PM, and the Mardi Gras Boat Parade on March 4, 2025, at 4:00 PM—both offering festive fun and coastal flair.

What food is a must for Mardi Gras celebrations?

A traditional King Cake from Rouses is a Mardi Gras staple. Visitors can also enjoy Gulf Coast cuisine, from fresh seafood to Southern specialties, throughout the festivities.

What makes Mardi Gras in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach unique?

These celebrations combine family-friendly parades, coastal views, live music, and local traditions in a laid-back beach setting—offering a relaxed and festive alternative to larger Mardi Gras cities.