Mississippi Gulf Coast Mardi Gras 2026 — Must-Do Activities
📆 Key Dates & Season Highlights
Carnival season on the Mississippi Gulf Coast runs from early January through Fat Tuesday on February 17, 2026. Expect over 20 parades, family events, parties, and celebrations along the Coast — all with beads, music, and Southern style! PR Newswire
🎉 Biloxi Events & Parades
🥳 Twelfth Night Celebration — Jan. 5
Kick off Mardi Gras in style! Biloxi’s official Carnival season opening at Biloxi City Hall — complete with music, costumes, and local flair. msgcca.org
🎊 Krewe of Neptune Night Parade — Feb. 14
One of the largest and most spectacular night parades on the Coast! Floats, entertainers, throws, and lively crowds fill downtown Biloxi streets. Facebook
🎈 Gulf Coast Carnival Association Parade (Fat Tuesday) — Feb. 17
The classic Mardi Gras Day parade in downtown Biloxi — family-friendly, full of beads, bands, and pageantry. Gulf Coast Chamber
🕺 Krewe Parties & Balls
Biloxi’s Mardi Gras isn’t just parades:
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🎉 GCCA 12th Night & Sponsor Receptions
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👑 Coronation Ball at Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum
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💫 King & Queen Parties and Receptions
Great for a night out or group celebration. msgcca.org
🎭 Ocean Springs Celebrations
✨ Ocean Springs Carnival Association Night Parade — Feb. 13
This beloved night parade rolls at ~6 PM from Front Beach, with colorful floats, music, and a real community vibe — perfect for photos and families alike. OSCA
📍 Elks & Day Parades
Ocean Springs hosts additional parades earlier in the season — ideal for daytime family fun, catching throws, and exploring downtown. Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce
🎉 Gulfport & Neighboring Parades
🎈 Gulfport Mardi Gras Parade — ~Feb. 14
Join the Gulfport parade for more beads, floats, cheering crowds, and festive atmosphere close to the beach. RetireCoast.com
🎊 Other Coast Parades Nearby
Though slightly outside your three main cities, there are fun options you can easily visit:
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Long Beach Mardi Gras Parades
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Pass Christian & D’Iberville Parades
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Diamondhead Parade
Great for a day trip or extended celebration across the Coast. RetireCoast.com
🍹 Tips for Enjoying Mardi Gras Coast-Style
✔ Bring chairs and coolers: Many locals treat parade routes like picnics. christiesgulfbeachrentals.com
✔ Plan for night and day parades: Night parades are especially magical with lights and energy. RetireCoast.com
✔ Family-friendly fun all along the Coast: Smaller crowds make coastal Mardi Gras ideal for all ages. RetireCoast.com
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