While many consider New Orleans the hub of Mardi Gras in the U.S., you might be surprised to learn that it actually began in the Gulf Coast town of Mobile, Alabama. Mardi Gras has been celebrated with parades, balls, food, drinks, and overall revelry for years…and that tradition continues today. Not too far from Gulf Shores, this celebration is unlike any other, and it offers something for both adults and children.
One great thing about staying with us in Fort Morgan while you’re here for the Mardi Gras celebration – you can avoid the crowds when you want, but join in on the fun anytime! If you’re heading to Gulf Shores for Mardi Gras, read on to see what’s in store for you.
The Mardi Gras parades in Mobile features a huge lineup of guests, including many local groups and societies. The parades will run from Friday, January 30, until Tuesday, February 17, with exciting events each day. Groups will parade through this Gulf Coast town with their best float work, offering tons of entertainment along the way. Each day, many of the groups will also host balls to celebrate Mardi Gras. While some balls are by invitation only, some groups sell tickets to the public, so you can join in on the fun! Another interesting part of Mardi Gras on the Gulf Coast is the throwing of MoonPies®. It’s a long-standing tradition at the parade that children will especially love. Of course, there will be plenty of other booty tossed out, so get ready to take home some fun mementos.
For more information about Mobile’s Mardi Gras celebrations, check out cityofmobile.org. Here you’ll find parade routes, schedules, and more. You can also visit the Mobile Carnival Museum and learn all about the history of Mardi Gras in Mobile, Alabama!
If you want to celebrate Mardi Gras but want to stay a bit closer to Gulf Shores and Fort Morgan, LuLu’s will be hosting its 3rd Annual Birds of Paradise Mardi Gras Ball on February 11. Admission is $60 and the celebration will include a buffet dinner, open bar, and entertainment by The Tip Tops! It’s just for those 21 and over, and it’s sure to be a fun night to remember. For more information, call 251.967.LULU (5858) or go to www.lulubuffet.com. The “Krewe De Lu Roux’s Mardi Gras Ball” will be one event you won’t want to miss!
