Mardi Gras Galveston 2026 Guide: Parades, Tickets, Schedule & Where to Stay
If you’ve never experienced Mardi Gras! Galveston, you are missing one of the biggest and most electric weekends on the Texas coast. This is Texas’ Largest Mardi Gras, celebrating 115 years of island tradition — with nonstop energy in the historic downtown district.
In 2026, Mardi Gras! Galveston runs from February 6–17, 2026, featuring 20+ parades, 20+ concerts, and more than 3 million beads thrown during the celebration.
Mardi Gras! Galveston 2026 Dates, Festival Map + Where Everything Happens
Mardi Gras! Galveston 2026 runs from February 6–17, 2026 with celebrations happening across two weekends and special events leading up to Fat Tuesday. Mardi Gras! Galveston is centered around the Entertainment District in downtown Galveston near The Strand. The easiest way to plan your weekend is to check the official festival footprint so you know where parades, music stages, and entrance points are located.
Tickets, Schedules & Balcony Parties
Ticket requirements can vary by day and event type—especially for peak weekend dates and premium viewing areas. If you want to skip guesswork, check ticketing online before you arrive.
What Do Tickets Usually Include?
- Access to the Entertainment District on ticketed dates
- Live music stages + DJs (varies by day)
- Parade viewing within the official district footprint
- Optional upgrades: balcony access, VIP areas, and event bundles here.
Best Balcony Spots on The Strand to Watch Mardi Gras Parades
Want the ultimate Mardi Gras! Galveston experience without fighting for curb space? Balcony viewing on The Strand is one of the best ways to enjoy the parades — you get a better view, a little breathing room, and easy access to food, drinks, and restrooms.
Top Balcony Picks (Downtown Galveston / The Strand)
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Mardi Gras! Headquarters Balcony (23rd & Strand)
Prime parade views + centered in the action + overlooks the main stage area.
View Balcony Tickets -
Mardi Gras! Kings Court Balcony (2021 Strand)
A fan favorite for comfort — great viewing, bathrooms available, and easy downtown access.
View Balcony Tickets -
Hearsay on the Strand Balcony (2410 Strand)
Great parade views with the convenience of ordering food + drinks from the restaurant.
View Restaurant Packages -
Z Krewe “Zestival” Balcony Party
Full VIP-style energy with a big balcony, drinks, music, and prime parade viewing.
Visit Z Krewe
Which Balcony Should You Choose?
- Best overall view + classic Mardi Gras energy: Mardi Gras! Headquarters Balcony
- Best for comfort + easy logistics: Kings Court Balcony
- Best if you want food + drinks handled: Hearsay on the Strand
- Best for VIP party vibes: Z Krewe Zestival
Parades, Routes & Where to Watch
Parades are the heartbeat of Mardi Gras! Galveston, and most action is centered around downtown near The Strand. The parade lineup changes by day, so always confirm times before you go.
Unique Parades You Don’t Want to Miss
- Umbrella Brigade: A quirky Galveston favorite and super fun to photograph. This is a Guinness World Recording breaking event with more information Here.
- Golf Cart Parade: Known as one of the zaniest events of the season. Spots still available for both Saturday, February 7th and Sunday, February 8th. Register here!
- Jeep Parades: A crowd favorite and great for daytime family watching. Spots still available if you want to BE in the parade for Sunday, February 8th. Check Here for registration.
🐾 Featured Parade: Krewe of Barkus & Meoux (A Mardi Gras Must-Do!)
Looking for something truly unique (and family-friendly) during Mardi Gras season? The Galveston Island Humane Society hosts the adorable and unforgettable Krewe of Barkus & Meoux Parade — featuring costumed pets, festive floats, music, and a big community celebration that supports local homeless animals.
📅 Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
🎭 Bonus: Don’t miss the Cat’s Eye View Balcony Party — a fun add-on experience with bites, drinks,
and prime parade viewing while supporting a great cause.
✅ Parade Registration:
Sign up here
🎟️ Cat’s Eye View Balcony Party Tickets:
Get tickets here
Festivals, Nightlife & Live Music
Mardi Gras! Galveston is more than parades—it’s a full weekend entertainment experience with live music, DJs, festival-style food, and packed nightlife downtown.
Live Music + Entertainment
Entertainment changes by day, but you can see the official lineup here: Mardi Gras! Galveston Entertainment Schedule .
NEW for 2026: Mardi Gras! Street Circus 🎪
One of the newest additions to Mardi Gras! Galveston is the Mardi Gras! Street Circus — bringing more street-level entertainment and festival energy right into the Entertainment District. If you love performances, photo moments, and surprise fun while you walk around downtown, this is one to watch.
Learn more about Mardi Gras! Street Circus
The Golden Bead Giveaway (Yes, It’s a Real Thing!)
One of the coolest Mardi Gras! Galveston traditions is the Golden Bead Giveaway. During select parades, organizers throw exclusive golden Mardi Gras beads — and if you catch one, you can win prizes.
Family Events (Kid-Friendly Mardi Gras Options)
Mardi Gras in Galveston can absolutely be family-friendly — especially if you focus on daytime parades, early events, and the official family programming. Kids under the age of 12 get free admission on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
Run the Jolly Jester Jaunt 5K
Want to add something memorable (and surprisingly fun) to your Mardi Gras weekend? Mardi Gras! Galveston hosts an official 5K fun run called the Jolly Jester Jaunt 5K.
Where to Buy King Cake in Galveston 🍰
Mardi Gras isn’t complete without king cake. These two local favorites typically offer king cakes during the season (availability can vary by week, so ordering early is smart).
Top King Cake Spots to Check First
- Chef Mary Bass (Good Dough) — artisan king cakes and seasonal bakes. Visit website
- ShyKatZ Cafe Deli & Bakery — a Galveston classic for baked goods and café favorites. Visit website
What to Wear + Insider Tips (From a Local Host)
What to Wear
- Comfortable shoes (you’ll walk more than you think)
- Light layers (cool evenings + warm afternoons)
- Crossbody bag or small backpack
- Optional: fun accessories (beads, glitter, themed outfits)
Best Tips for a Smooth Weekend
- Arrive early on Saturday to avoid peak crowd traffic.
- Plan your parade must-sees and build food breaks around them.
- Stay walkable so you can reset at your rental between events.
- Bring cash for vendors and quick purchases.
❓ FAQ: Mardi Gras! Galveston 2026
When is Mardi Gras! Galveston 2026?
Mardi Gras! Galveston 2026 runs from February 6–17, 2026, including two weekends of major events and Fat Tuesday celebrations.
Where do the parades happen?
Most parades take place in downtown Galveston near The Strand and the Entertainment District. Always review the official schedule and routes before you arrive.
Do I need tickets?
Some dates and areas require tickets (especially weekend events and premium experiences like balcony parties). Check the official ticketing site to confirm what’s included.
What’s the best day to go?
Saturday is usually the biggest crowd + biggest energy. If you want a more relaxed experience, go earlier in the day or choose Sunday events.
Where should I stay for Mardi Gras weekend in Galveston?
Staying close to The Strand helps you avoid parking stress and makes it easier to come and go. White Magnolia Galveston is a group-friendly option with space, comfort, and convenience.
Make Mardi Gras! Galveston Your Next Favorite Tradition
Whether you’re coming for the parades, the music, the king cake, or the unforgettable Galveston nightlife, Mardi Gras! Galveston is one of the best weekends of the year to visit the island.
If you're traveling with family or friends, staying together in a comfortable home makes the whole weekend easier, more fun, and way more memorable.
