Have you ever thought about escaping the madness of Mardi Gras week in New Orleans, Southeast Louisiana, or along the Gulf Coast? The kids are out of school. It's the perfect time for a family vacation.
Where should you go? What should you do?
What about a Mardi Gras trip to visit Walt Disney World Resort?
When is Mardi Gras?
The first thing you should think about is when Mardi Gras day occurs.
Mardi Gras can fall sometime between early February through early March. In 2023 Mardi Gras is on February 21, 2022. Because Mardi Gras and Presidents Day are on the same exact weeks, be prepared for level 10 crowds this week ask families up north who are escaping winter as we escape Mardi Gras madness.
Do You Want to Go to Disney World for Mardi Gras?
Ok, so now you have chosen to go to Disney during Mardi Gras break. First of all, expect to see half of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast (they celebrate Mardi Gras in Mobile, Mississippi, and Southern Alabama too) there.
A bunch of people get the same idea and let’s face it, it’s a good one!
So now you need to do all the same things you would normally do when booking a Disney trip. Book your trip, and your meals, decide if you want to purchase Genie+ and pack your bags. If you need help, I recommend Amy at Wicked Travel Concierge.
Then you go and have fun with Mickey, Minnie, and the gang.
What should you pack?
The weather in Central Florida is like the weather in New Orleans and along the Gulf Coast this time of year. It could be cold because it is still technically winter or mild, or it could be HOT. The best thing to do is keep an eye on the local Orlando weather and pack accordingly. Be sure to bring a jacket, gloves, socks, and an umbrella or raincoat because, like at home, the weather can change at any moment.
You will need a few more items: A good water bottle, sunscreen, a backpack, your phone charger, and sunglasses.
Some people also bring along Mardi Gras beads and trinkets. These make great conversation starters. They are also nice to give out to Cast Members from our local area to give them a taste of home.
What To Wear
Now, how about what you will wear? Purple, green, and gold of course!
Matching Mardi Gras Disney shirts would be awesome! You can find some on Etsy and Shop Disney or you can make your own with a Cricut machine. I prefer to make my own.
A good pair of shoes is a MUST. My go-Disney shoes are Crocs flip-flops. I swear by these for Disney. This time of year, though, they may not be weather appropriate. My advice, invest in a good pair of tennis shoes or a pair of Crocs.
Again don't forget socks, gloves and an umbrella or raincoat.
How Should You Celebrate Mardi Gras Day in Walt Disney World?
Port Orleans Riverside and Port Orleans French Quarter have a small golf cart parade Disney style each year where Cast Members throw beads and candy to guests. It's not your typical Mardi Gras Parade, but it looks fun, and the kids will love it. In years past, they have also had Mardi Gras crafts for the kids.
Dine on Creole and Cajun specialties at Sassagoula Floatworks (Port of Orleans French Quarter's Quick Service Restaurant). There you will find beignets (gluten-free and Mickey-shaped), the famous beignet burger, po'boys, shrimp and grits, blackened ribeye, and more. It's the perfect place to have breakfast, lunch, or dinner on Mardi Gras day.
There have been Carnival or Carvnivale activities at Disney Springs to celebrate the season in years past. So be sure to check there for some Mardi Gras fun.
Of course, you can also enjoy the four Walt Disney World theme parks!
No matter how you spend Mardi Gras Day at Walt Disney World, you'll be sure to have a good time. Laissez le bon ton roulette!
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