Mardi Gras season is officially underway, and Pensacola is stepping into it with a full calendar of events. Each Tuesday through Fat Tuesday, Pensacola Mardi Gras will release a Top 5 roundup highlighting the week’s must-attend celebrations — from long-standing traditions and Krewe Balls to newer experiences across the city.
Here’s what’s happening during the first week of Mardi Gras:
- Date: Tuesday, January 6, 5:30pm
- Location: Downtown Pensacola in front of Old Hickory
Second Line Tuesday launches the season with music, movement, and community at the heart of downtown. Locals and visitors are invited to fall in line, follow the rhythm, and experience Mardi Gras at street level.
- Date: Friday, January 9
- Location: Pensacola
Hosted by the Krewe of Priscus, Mardi Gras Coachella brings together live entertainment, dancing, and high-energy Carnival atmosphere for one of the week’s most anticipated events.
3. King Cake Party at Paradise Bar & Grill
- Date: Saturday, January 10
- Time: 3:00 p.m.
- Location: Paradise Bar & Grill, Pensacola Beach
A Pensacola Beach tradition continues as the Mystic Krewe of Nereids hosts a King Cake Party to kick off the season. The afternoon celebration includes music by DJ Boogie Inc, raffles benefiting local charities, and complimentary king cake.
4. Parade People Krewe Discount Days
- Dates: All week
- Location: Parade People
Krewes can prepare for the season ahead during Krewe Discount Days at Parade People, with special savings available throughout the week on parade and Mardi Gras essentials.
5. Pensacola Ghost Tours: Mardi Gras Edition
- Dates: All week
- Location: Downtown Pensacola
The Pensacola Ghost Tours offers a Mardi Gras edition of its walking tours, blending seasonal traditions with local history and storytelling for a unique Carnival-inspired experience.
A new Pensacola Mardi Gras Top 5 will be published every Tuesday throughout the season, offering a weekly guide to the events shaping Mardi Gras in Pensacola.
