Top Kid-Fun Parades

Some are day parades, some night, but all are fun for the whole family!

French Quarter:
Krewe of Barkus, Feb. 16, 2 pm

Uptown:
Krewe of King Arthur, Feb. 16, follows The Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale at 11 am
Krewe of Muses, Feb. 20, 6:30 pm
Krewe of Thoth, Feb. 23, Noon
Krewe of Rex, Feb. 25, 10 am

Metairie:
Krewe of Excalibur, Feb. 14, 6:30 pm
Krewe of Athena, Feb. 23, 5:30 pm
Krewe of Elks Jeffersons, Feb. 25, follows Krewe of Argus at 10 am

Mid-City:
Krewe of Endymion, Feb. 22, 6:30 pm

Northshore:
Krewe of Eve, Feb. 14, 7pm
Krewe of Tchefuncte, Feb. 15, 1 pm
Krewe of Olympia, Feb. 15, 6 pm
Krewe of Dionysus, Feb. 16, 1 pm
Krewe of Push Mow, Feb. 16, 2 pm
Krewe of Selene, Feb. 21, 6:30 pm

Top Safety Tips

Mardi Gras safety, with kids in tow, is an essential part of parade day planning. We’ve got tips to make it work.

• Temporary Tattoo
  A permanent marker plus clear nail polish equals a temporary tattoo with child’s name, important phone numbers, or health information like “Asthmatic.” 
• Parade Day Photo
  Then, snap a photo with your phone of your child. This can be a major help if showing to the police if they get lost. But also tell your child to look for another mommy with little kids. They’ll be “on it” when it comes to helping you get reunited.
• Emergency Change of Clothes 
  And an extra pull-up or diaper. This is a no-brainer, but being reminded could help you manage those “doh!” moments.
• Matchy Match 
  Matching shirts for the “gang” could help family members recognize each other if separated. It could not only help you, but strangers can also identify who is with your group and corral them back. It takes a village.
• Potties
  Never underestimate a small child in need of a potty. They just can’t pace themselves. Those $10 wristbands along the route? Worth it. Or find a friend that lives on or near the route and coordinate ahead of time. Bring them a bottle of wine as a thank you.
• Noise Control and Sunglasses
  Mardi Gras safety extends to the ears and eyes, especially if your child has sensory issues but doesn’t want to miss the fun. 
• Sanitizer
  Is there anything dirtier than beads picked up off the ground? But just try and stop your child from lunging for them — just try. Plus, LEAD. Yes, some beads can be very toxic.
• Start of the Route
  Most parades are calmer at the beginning. Riders are likely to be less drunk and therefore more careful when throwing. And the sooner it’s over, the sooner you can get home.

Sponsored by: Stuart Hall

Tim Meyer is the Managing Editor of Nola Family Magazine.

Looking to parade as a family? Click here for the top kid-fun parades. PLUS, check out these marching crews you’ve never heard of! Also, we’ve done the hard work for you – Mardi Gras Camps your kiddos will want to attend!