Get ready for a spectacular family-friendly Mardi Gras experience at Family Gras 2025! This free festival in Jefferson Parish is packed with exciting parades, live music from national and local artists, delicious Louisiana cuisine, and a vibrant art market. Mark your calendars for February 21st, 22nd, & 23rd, 2025, and head to Mardi Gras Plaza on the 3300 block of Veterans Memorial Boulevard, across from Lakeside Shopping Center, for a weekend of fun.
Family Gras is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of community and Carnival spirit. Whether you’re a local or visiting Jefferson Parish, this event offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the joy of Mardi Gras without the downtown New Orleans crowds. And best of all, admission is free, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy the festivities.
The highlight of Family Gras is undoubtedly the series of dazzling Mardi Gras parades. Experience the thrill as the Krewes of Excalibur, Atlas, and Madhatters roll along Veterans Memorial Boulevard right in front of the Family Gras site on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. These parades bring the magic of Mardi Gras up close and personal, with spectacular floats and costumed krewe members tossing throws to eager crowds. For a detailed schedule of all Mardi Gras parades in Jefferson Parish, you can check out the official parade schedule.
Beyond the parades, Family Gras offers a diverse entertainment lineup. While the full 2025 entertainment schedule is being finalized, you can expect a fantastic mix of national headliners and popular Louisiana musicians taking the stage throughout the weekend. Stay tuned for announcements and get ready to dance and sing along to incredible live performances.
FG Announcement
For those looking for a more exclusive experience, the BMW Royal Pass offers VIP treatment. This pass grants you 3-day access to the festival, entry to a special VIP area, back-of-stage access, prime front-of-stage viewing for concerts, and includes limited food and drinks, plus access to a comfort station. It’s the perfect way to elevate your Family Gras experience.
Family Gras is truly designed for families, and the Kids’ Court is a testament to that. Children 12 and under will have a blast with a range of activities, including face painting, interactive games, and more. It’s a dedicated space where kids can have fun and make lasting Mardi Gras memories.
Kids Court
No festival is complete without delicious food and unique shopping opportunities. The Flambeau Food & Art Market at Family Gras features a variety of vendors offering mouthwatering Louisiana cuisine, from jambalaya and gumbo to seafood potatoes and BBQ. You can also browse the Art Market for unique Mardi Gras accessories, handcrafted jewelry, art pieces, and souvenirs to take home.
2025 FG Art Vendors
For runners and walkers, the N.O. Track Club’s Mardi Gras 5K & 10K offers a fun way to kick off Saturday, February 22nd. This family-friendly race finishes right as Family Gras gets into full swing, making it a perfect combination of fitness and festival fun. Participants can enjoy refreshments and beer post-race, and then easily transition into enjoying the music and festivities of Family Gras. Register for the race and find more details here.
Mardi Gras 5K New logo
Getting There and Street Closures:
Family Gras takes place on Mardi Gras Plaza in Metairie, Jefferson Parish. Plan your visit and be aware of street closures to ensure smooth travel. Veterans Boulevard will be closed between North Causeway Boulevard and Severn Avenue on Friday, February 21st from 2 p.m. until parades end, and on Saturday, February 22nd and Sunday, February 23rd from 9 a.m. until parades are complete. These times are subject to change based on crowd and traffic conditions, as advised by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Street Closures
Stay Connected and Share the Fun:
Follow Family Gras on social media for the latest updates, entertainment announcements, and behind-the-scenes peeks! Click the image below to visit their Facebook page and stay in the loop.
Family Gras 2025 promises to be an unforgettable Mardi Gras celebration for the whole family. With its free admission, exciting schedule of parades and music, delicious food, and fun activities, it’s the perfect way to experience the spirit of Carnival in Jefferson Parish. Start planning your visit today!
Family Gras 2025 Sponsors:
Family Gras is made possible thanks to the generous support of its sponsors: LCMC Health, Verizon, Atmos Energy, Bud Light, Cynthia LeJeune Salon, Lopinto, JPSO, and many others.
JPSO