Los Angeles may be far from New Orleans, and even further from Rio, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have amazing festivals here to celebrate Mardi Gras! This is a time to feast on delicious New Orleans food, dance the Samba, and celebrate this culture rich tradition. Here are some of the best places to get in the spirit of Mardi Gras in LA County.

Long Beach Mardi Gras Parade & Festival

Shoreline Village Drive Long Beach

Saturday February 25, 2017

Right in the backyard of Camden Harbor View Apartments is the Shoreline Village and Rainbow Harbor Mardi Gras parade and festival. This free event is from noon to 6pm where you can enjoy New Orleans cuisine and live entertainment.  The parade starts at 3pm and will have Brazilian dancing, stilt walkers, and musicians. 

Mardi Gras at The Original Farmer’s Market

6333 W 3rd St Los Angeles

Saturday February 25, 2017 - Tuesday February 28, 2017

This weekend long celebration at The Original Farmer’s Market, less than 4 miles from The Camden Apartments, has a whole bunch of fun packed in! Enjoy some authentic gumbo, jambalaya and other southern favorites including Dixie beer. You can even bring your pup along for the “Mutti Gras” Pet Parade & Costume Contest. There will also be New Orleans style music, parade bands, and fun activities for kids.

Brazilian Carnaval of Axé & Samba

1234 W 7th St Los Angeles

Friday February 24, 2017

Beads, Po’ Boys, King Cake, masks- sure, all of that says Mardi Gras.  But another important part is the music! Visit the Teragram Ballroom and feel like you are really in Brazil at this 17th annual celebration of Carnival. Dance the night away to traditional Brazilian music and enjoy Creole food and drinks.  Nearly 1,000 people attend this party, so come with your most festive masks and sequined clothing and be ready to dance!

There’s even more events happening for Mardi Gras in LA County! Check out this article on Where to attend a Mardi Gras party in Los Angeles. You won’t want to miss out on one of the fabulous ways to celebrate Carnival in Los Angeles County.  Curious about other Mardi Gras Traditions? Read this blog to find out the Story Behind the King Cake at Mardi Gras!