Mardi Gras in Pointe Coupee Parish: A Celebration of Tradition and Community

Mardi Gras in Pointe Coupee Parish is more than a season—it’s a cherished tradition rooted in history, hospitality, and hometown pride. While larger cities may be known for their parades, our parish offers a Mardi Gras experience that is uniquely personal, family-friendly, and rich in culture.

From vibrant community gatherings to time-honored customs passed down through generations, Mardi Gras in Pointe Coupee reflects the heart of our parish. Friends, families, neighbors, and visitors come together to celebrate with music, food, laughter, and the unmistakable spirit of Louisiana.

Parades That Bring Our Community Together

A highlight of the season is our local Mardi Gras parades, which showcase the creativity, dedication, and community spirit of Pointe Coupee Parish—many of them rooted in long-standing tradition.

• Krewe of Chemin Neuf Night Parade

  The festivities kick off with the Krewe of Chemin Neuf Night Parade on January 31 at 6:00 p.m. This nighttime parade lights up the parish and rolls through the City of New Roads, offering a festive evening for families and parade-goers of all ages.

  
  

• Livonia Lions Club Mardi Gras Parade

  The celebration continues on Sunday, February 15, with the Livonia Lions Club Mardi Gras Parade. This long-standing community favorite brings classic Mardi Gras fun to Livonia while supporting the Lions Club’s mission of service and community involvement.

  
  

• Community Center of Pointe Coupee Parade

  On Mardi Gras Day, February 17, at 10:00 a.m., the Community Center of Pointe Coupee Parade rolls once again. Proudly recognized as one of the oldest Mardi Gras parades in the state of Louisiana, this historic parade is a treasured tradition that generations of families have enjoyed, featuring colorful floats, festive throws, and an authentic small-town Mardi Gras atmosphere.

  
  

• New Roads Lions Club Parade

  The festivities continue with the 82nd New Roads Lions Club Parade at 1:00 p.m. on Mardi Gras Day. This beloved tradition draws crowds from across the parish and highlights the Lions Club’s continued dedication to service and community pride.

  
  

Celebrating Culture, Cuisine, and Community

One of the most beloved parts of Mardi Gras in Pointe Coupee Parish is the strong sense of connection. Local organizations, schools, churches, and businesses all play a role—whether hosting events, decorating storefronts, preparing king cakes, or welcoming guests with open arms. It’s a wonderful reminder of how working together strengthens our parish and supports our local economy.

Of course, no Mardi Gras celebration would be complete without the flavors of the season. From king cake traditions to classic Louisiana dishes enjoyed at gatherings throughout the parish, food brings people together while honoring our shared heritage.

Mardi Gras also provides a perfect opportunity to support local businesses. Shopping locally, dining locally, and attending community events helps ensure that the traditions we love continue for generations to come.

While Mardi Gras is known for celebration and festivity, its origins are deeply rooted in faith. Translated as “Fat Tuesday,” Mardi Gras marks the final day of celebration before the start of Lent, a season of prayer, fasting, and reflection observed in the Christian calendar. Traditionally, families would gather to enjoy rich foods and fellowship before the more solemn Lenten season began on Ash Wednesday. In Pointe Coupee Parish, this spiritual foundation remains an important part of the celebration, reminding us that Mardi Gras is not only about joy and tradition, but also about gratitude, reflection, and community.

Mardi Gras also provides a perfect opportunity to support local businesses. Shopping locally, dining locally, and attending community events helps ensure that the traditions we love continue for generations to come.

As we celebrate this joyful season, we invite everyone—residents and visitors alike—to enjoy all that Pointe Coupee Parish has to offer. Whether you’re catching beads along a parade route, sharing a king cake with friends, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, Mardi Gras here is a reminder of the strength, warmth, and spirit of our community.

From all of us at the Greater Pointe Coupee Chamber of Commerce, we wish you a safe, happy, and memorable Mardi Gras.

Laissez les bons temps rouler! 🎭💜💚💛