Mardi Gras is a big celebration that requires meticulous planning and creativity. In order to draw in your whole community, you need to set up the environment, contact vendors, and provide the materials to celebrate. Get into the festive spirit with these six tips for planning a Mardi Gras event!
1. Set a Festive Theme
As you outline your event, consider the theme you want to incorporate. Traditional Mardi Gras events revolve around the colors purple, green, and gold with unique elements, such as a masquerade ball or a New Orleans jazz night. Whether you choose traditional elements or add a modern twist, establishing a theme will help you organize the rest of the event.
2. Plan the Parade Route
Mardi Gras events are large and extravagant and include a parade of floats. If you will organize a parade in your town, make sure it is accessible for all participants and spectators. Coordinate with local authorities for permits and road closures to provide safety and enjoyment to the community.
3. Curate Festive Music
Live music draws in crowds and lifts the spirit of any Mardi Gras event. Hire bands or DJs to play traditional jazz, upbeat zydeco, and lively brass band music. Keep your dance floors packed and feel the groove of music that ties the event together!
4. Include Authentic Food and Drinks
Treat your guests to tasty catered food throughout the event. Serve traditional New Orleans cuisine, such as gumbo, jambalaya, and king cake, and don’t forget to include signature drinks like Hurricanes and Sazeracs! Participants will be overjoyed to experience authentic food that will leave them wanting more.
5. Provide Light-Up Throw Items
One of the best parts of a Mardi Gras parade is throwing light-up trinkets from parade floats to spectators. Incorporate this element by passing out toys for parade participants to toss into the crowd. Contact local wholesale toy suppliers to get throwing items such as LED beads, light-up masks, and glowing bracelets.
6. Promote Safety
Plan for any sudden changes or severe weather conditions during your Mardi Gras event by hiring security personnel and establishing emergency routes. Communicate these safety guidelines with your team so they can help to direct event attendees. Protect your community so everyone can enjoy the event without worry!
If you’re ready to start planning your upcoming Mardi Gras event, prepare these aspects early. Contact vendors or local officials to begin your prepping phase and get the community involved. Make your Mardi Gras a memorable experience for everyone!
