A Spectacular Mardi Gras 2025: The St. Anne Walking Parade Enchants Once Again
As the final notes of jazz fade into memory and the last beads are swept from the streets, we at Jean Lafitte House reflect on what can only be described as a triumphant return to form for New Orleans' beloved Mardi Gras season. The 2025 celebration exceeded all expectations, with the crown jewel of our Mardi Gras day experience being the enchanting St. Anne Walking Parade that passed right by our doorstep.
This year's Mardi Gras season saw tens of thousands of visitors flocking to the Crescent City, and our guests at Jean Lafitte House had front-row seats to the magic. The streets of the Marigny and French Quarter buzzed with an energy that could only be described as electric as both locals and visitors embraced the spirit of celebration that makes New Orleans so special. Our fully booked property hosted guests from across the globe, many experiencing their first Mardi Gras, while others returned as part of their annual pilgrimage. The universal reaction? Pure delight at the authentic New Orleans experience that unfolded before them.
On Mardi Gras day itself, the St. Anne Walking Parade once again proved why it remains one of the most cherished local traditions. Beginning in the Marigny and winding its way through the French Quarter to the Mississippi River, this grassroots parade embodies the true spirit of Mardi Gras.Our guests gathered on our balconies and at our doorstep as the parade passed by, marveling at the spectacular handmade costumes, the intricate masks, and the joyful spontaneity that defines this beloved procession. Unlike the larger, more commercial parades, St. Anne's maintains its intimate, community-driven character – a living piece of New Orleans cultural heritage. This year's parade featured some of the most creative costumes we've ever witnessed, with themes ranging from fantastical sea creatures to elaborate tributes to New Orleans musical legends. Several of our guests joined in the festivities, experiencing firsthand how the lines between spectator and participant beautifully blur during this magical event.
Following tradition, the parade concluded at the Mississippi River with the solemn yet beautiful ritual of participants releasing memorials to loved ones who had passed during the previous year. This poignant moment, set against the backdrop of the mighty Mississippi, served as a powerful reminder of the depth and soulfulness that underpins even the most jubilant of New Orleans celebrations. Several of our returning guests participated in this touching ceremony, finding comfort and community in this uniquely New Orleans tradition.
While the St. Anne Walking Parade was undoubtedly a highlight, our guests enjoyed the full spectrum of Mardi Gras experiences. From catching prized throws at the Krewe of Bacchus and Orpheus parades to sampling king cake from every bakery in the neighborhood, our visitors immersed themselves in all that makes Mardi Gras special. Our staff took pride in directing guests to local favorites and hidden gems, ensuring everyone experienced both the world-famous spectacles and the local traditions that make New Orleans Mardi Gras truly unique. It's these authentic experiences that transform a simple vacation into a profound cultural journey.
As we bid farewell to another successful Mardi Gras season, we're already looking forward to welcoming guests for next year's celebrations. The 2026 Mardi Gras season will begin on January 6 (Twelfth Night) and culminate on Mardi Gras day, February 17, 2026. For those planning to experience the magic of St. Anne's Walking Parade and all the other wonders of Mardi Gras, we encourage you to book your stay at Jean Lafitte House well in advance. Our prime location puts you in the heart of the celebration while offering a peaceful retreat when you need to recharge.
For booking information for Mardi Gras 2026, visit our reservations page or call us directly.