Family-friendly Mardi Gras parade in Orange Beach

Mardi Gras Tips

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Published on: January 30, 2026

In February, Alabama's Beaches will come alive with revelry as locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate Mardi Gras. If you're wondering what to expect, you'll find a family-friendly Carnival season on the Alabama Gulf Coast. The young and young-at-heart gather together for moon pies, beads, and a good time!

The parades will be aplenty, including several in Gulf Shore, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan as well as nearby Foley, Fairhope, Daphne, and Mobile. If you are new to the experience, we have a few tips to help you enjoy the season to the fullest.

Giant marlin float at Moon Pies on Main Mardi Gras parade at The Wharf

Mardi Gras Parade Tips

Be careful near the floats and respect the barriers between the floats and the crowd.
Dress for the occasion. Mardi Gras is a time to let the good times roll. The official colors of the season are purple and gold, so find fun shirts, hats, and sunglasses in these colors to get in the spirit.
Be prepared to catch your beads and moonpies. Bring several bags along to hold your parade throws.
Have a meeting place in case you get separated from your group.
Leave the pups at home. Parades can often be overwhelming to dogs due to crowds and noise. Leashed dogs are welcome at parades, but if your pup is easily scared, it's best to leave them at home. (Sign them up for the daytime dog + kid parade at The Wharf!)
Check parade routes before heading to a parade as certain roads will be closed before, during, and after.
Come early, bring a lawn chair and visit with your parade-route neighbor. Mardi Gras is about the entire experience! Pack a thermos of hot chocolate. It'll pair perfectly with a banana moon pie.
Bring your appetite. After the parade, make plans to stop by your favorite beach restaurant serving up Mardi Gras eats and drinks!
Be patient. Mardi Gras is only here for a short time! Enjoy the moment, and don’t rush to leave the parade route.

These blogs are written by the destination experts at Alabama's Beaches. From the best restaurants and hidden gems to tips and tricks for making the most of your stay, our knowledgable team has the lowdown on our area.