All Things Pensacola Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras season in Pensacola is in full swing, bringing a wave of festive parades, colorful beads, and lively celebrations to the Gulf Coast. Whether you're a local or visiting for the weekend, there's no better way to experience the spirit of Carnival than by catching one of Pensacola’s exciting parades.
Here’s a breakdown of the 2025 Mardi Gras parades in Pensacola, so you can plan your celebrations accordingly!
🎭 Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade
📅 Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
📍 Location: Downtown Pensacola
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM
The Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade is the biggest and most anticipated parade of the season! With over 100 floats, marching bands, and krewes tossing beads, moon pies, and trinkets, this event is a must-see. The parade route runs through Palafox Street, creating a vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere. Arrive early to grab a good spot along the route!
⚓ Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Parade
📅 Date: Friday, February 28, 2025
📍 Location: Downtown Pensacola
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM
This glow-in-the-dark parade is a favorite among locals! The Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Parade lights up Downtown Pensacola with dazzling floats, glowing costumes, and an electric atmosphere. As one of the few nighttime parades, it’s the perfect way to kick off a weekend of Mardi Gras fun.
🐶 Krewe of Wrecks Mardi Gras Parade (Pensacola Beach)
📅 Date: Sunday, March 2, 2025
📍 Location: Pensacola Beach Blvd.
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM
Taking the party to the beach, the Krewe of Wrecks Parade is one of the most beloved Mardi Gras events in the area! This parade brings colorful floats, lively music, and beachside fun to Pensacola Beach. Stick around after the parade to enjoy live entertainment and festive celebrations at local bars and restaurants.
🏍️ Mystic Krewe of Nereids & Krewe of Warriors Parade (Navarre Beach)
📅 Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025
📍 Location: Gulf Blvd., Navarre Beach
⏰ Time: 1:00 PM
If you're up for a short drive east, the Mystic Krewe of Nereids & Krewe of Warriors Parade in Navarre Beach offers another fantastic Mardi Gras experience. This beachside parade features decorated golf carts, local krewes, and a laid-back coastal vibe that makes it a fun day trip from Pensacola.
🎉 Tips for Enjoying Mardi Gras in Pensacola
✔️ Arrive early – The best spots fill up fast, especially along Palafox Street and Pensacola Beach Blvd.
✔️ Bring a bag – You’ll need it to collect all the beads and goodies tossed from the floats!
✔️ Dress festively – Purple, green, and gold are the official Mardi Gras colors, so get in the spirit.
✔️ Check traffic & parking – Some roads will be closed, so plan ahead and consider using rideshare services.
✔️ Respect the tradition – Mardi Gras is all about fun, but be mindful of local rules and clean up after yourself.
Celebrate Mardi Gras, Gulf Coast Style!
Pensacola’s Mardi Gras parades bring the perfect mix of family-friendly fun and lively street parties, making them a must-experience tradition. So grab your beads, put on your mask, and get ready to let the good times roll!
Looking for more fun things to do in Pensacola? Check out our Must Do Pensacola Tours & Activities to make the most of your visit!
