The Krewe of Excalibur's Mardi Gras Parade lights up the streets of Metairie with colorful floats and joyful crowds.
The Krewe of Excalibur reignited the spirit of Mardi Gras in Metairie on February 2, 2024. The parade returned to its traditional route, pleasing local parade-goers, and included enhanced safety measures for float riders. The upcoming Family Gras concert series offers a star-studded lineup and emphasizes safety protocols for a fun celebration. Community members eagerly participated in the festivities, signaling a joyous Mardi Gras season ahead.
The party is back on in Metairie as the Krewe of Excalibur rolled through the streets this past Friday, February 2, 2024, ushering in the Mardi Gras season with a splash of medieval flair! For those who have been itching to see the colorful floats and enjoy the festive vibes, this year’s parade brought smiles and nostalgia as it reintroduced the traditional Mardi Gras parade route.
After several years of detours, Mardi Gras parades in Jefferson Parish are returning to their traditional eastern route along Veterans Memorial Boulevard. The change comes after numerous complaints from parade-goers and local residents in Bonnabel. In years past, the route had been shifted away from the bustling area, which had some folks feeling a bit left out. The Krewe of Excalibur decided it was time to head back where the action is!
Starting this year, all east bank parades will kick off near Clearview City Center and cruise east along Veterans Boulevard, taking turns onto Severn Avenue and Bonnabel Boulevard before wrapping up at Martin Behrman Avenue. This return to the traditional route is a much-welcomed change, particularly for families and community members looking to join in the fun.
As if the excitement of the parades wasn’t enough, the annual Family Gras concert series is gearing up for a fantastic lineup from February 21 to 23. However, attendees should be aware there will be new safety measures in place. Metal detectors will greet concert-goers at the entrances. To ensure everyone has a safe experience, ice chests and outside food or drinks will not be allowed at the events. It’s all about keeping the festivities enjoyable for everyone!
Last year’s incident involving a float rider underscores the need for enhanced safety measures. Jefferson Parish has instituted new rules requiring riders on certain floats to wear safety harnesses—especially those on floats with railings shorter than 48 inches. This update aligns with the regulations already in place in New Orleans since 2014. Previously, only riders under the age of 12 were mandated to wear these safety devices, but now it’s all hands on deck for a safer celebration!
With the celebrations underway, road closures will be the norm, but worry not! The closures will ensure a smooth experience for parade-goers. Starting February 21, Veterans Boulevard will close at 2 p.m. and will remain shut down until the final parade wraps up. On February 22 and 23, the closures will begin even earlier, at 9 a.m. So, be sure to plan ahead and find your ideal viewing spot!
This year’s Family Gras event boasts a vibrant lineup that you won’t want to miss! Catch performances from big-name artists like Gary LeVox from Rascal Flatts, Gabby Barrett, Ambrosia, Kansas, Zebra, and Amanda Shaw. With such an incredible array of talent on the schedule, it’s sure to be a memorable weekend filled with fantastic music, delicious food, and a whole lot of community spirit!
The Krewe of Excalibur’s return to Metairie with the familiar sights and sounds of Mardi Gras makes for an exciting time for residents and visitors alike. So grab your friends and family, put on your best costumes, and join in on the festivities—the carnival spirit is alive and well in Metairie!
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