News Summary
As Mardi Gras Day approaches on March 4, New Orleans is adjusting its parade plans due to severe weather forecasts. High winds and storms are predicted, prompting the Krewe of Zulu to start its parade earlier at 6:30 a.m. and change the route to preserve safety. The Krewe of Rex will also follow a shorter route, while some parades in Jefferson Parish have been canceled. Revelers are advised to prepare for the changing conditions, as safety remains the top priority for all involved.
Weather Woes Change Mardi Gras Parade Plans in New Orleans
Get ready, New Orleans! Mardi Gras Day is just around the corner on March 4, and with it brings the thrill of parades, colorful floats, and plenty of festive spirit. However, this year, Mother Nature is throwing a curveball with some severe weather forecasts that are causing the city’s cherished traditions to adapt and change.
Mardi Gras Is Here!
The Carnival season kicked off on January 6, and by now, the excitement is palpable. But as we approach the main event, it appears that we’re in for some high winds that could affect the celebrations. Forecasts are predicting wind gusts reaching between 40 to 60 mph and even severe storms later in the day. As a result, both the Krewe of Zulu and Krewe of Rex are making adjustments to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Krewe of Zulu Changes with the Winds
The iconic Krewe of Zulu will now be kicking off its parade earlier than planned at 6:30 a.m. This adjustment has been made to avoid the predicted high winds, with the parade starting at the corner of South Claiborne and Jackson Avenue. Instead of winding through the traditional route, Zulu’s festivities will take a different direction this year. After starting on Jackson Avenue, the parade will turn onto St. Charles Avenue and then onto Poydras Street, finally coming to an end at Loyola Avenue instead of Canal Street.
What’s more, in light of the weather situation, the parade won’t feature any marching bands or additional elements this time around. Safety has been emphasized as a top priority for everyone involved, including citizens and visitors alike. To keep things organized, the New Orleans Police Department mandates that all parades should clear the streets by 11:30 a.m. That’s a big change, but safety comes first!
Rex Parade Rolls Out Adjustments
Following Zulu, it’s the Krewe of Rex, set to take off at 9:30 a.m. Like Zulu, Rex will also follow a shorter route, conveniently skipping the historic Gallier Hall to navigate through the changing weather more safely.
Sadly, not all parades will get to ride the waves of Mardi Gras cheer. Officials in Jefferson Parish have decided to cancel all their Mardi Gras Day parades, which adds to the list of changes made throughout the region in response to the weather. Furthermore, the Krewe of Folsom has completely canceled its parade. It certainly sends a message that everyone is taking the forecasts seriously!
The Safety Dance
As both the Zulu and Rex parades prepare to adjust to these unforeseen circumstances, revelers should also prepare accordingly. Portable toilets along parade routes will be removed to discourage gathering and mitigate any safety risks. Paradegoers are also advised to refrain from bringing umbrellas or tents, as these could pose dangers in the high winds.
Krewe of Houmas in Houma is moving its parade time up to start two hours earlier, demonstrating that many are willing to adapt for the sake of safety and preserving the festive spirit.
The high winds earlier in the day could affect both parades, and if conditions worsen, authorities reserve the right to cancel them altogether. However, the hope remains that Mardi Gras will still shine through for those who wish to celebrate.
Despite a few obstacles, the city of New Orleans is pushing forward to ensure a safe and enjoyable Carnival experience for everyone. While some traditions may look a little different this year, the heart of Mardi Gras will indeed beat on. So, grab your costumes, gather your friends, and let’s hope for the best this Mardi Gras Day!
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Additional Resources
- WWLTV: Krewe of Zulu 2025 Parade Route
- NOLA: Shortened Zulu, Rex Parades Roll Early
- WGNO: Krewes of Zulu and Rex to Roll Early
- Fox 8: King & Queen Zulu Relish Their Reign
- Google Search: Mardi Gras 2025
