Mardi Gras SWLA 2026 Kicks Off with Family Friendly Twelfth Night Celebration

Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana is excited to usher in the 2026 Carnival Season with a refreshed and family-focused 12th Night Celebration, officially launching Mardi Gras festivities on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Lake Charles Event Center.

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Traditionally held on January 6, this year’s 12th Night celebration moves to the Saturday before in an effort to better welcome families and guests of all ages. Lake Charles has long been proud of its reputation for hosting a family-friendly Mardi Gras, and this schedule change allows more families to take part in the time-honored kickoff to Carnival season.

The evening will showcase the grandeur and pageantry of more than 40 local krewes as they present their royalty in elaborate costumes, marking the official start of the 2026 Carnival Season. A cherished highlight of the night—the ceremonial passing of the crown—will honor the outgoing kings and queens while welcoming the new reign. Doors open at 4:30 PM.

 

New elements debuting this year will add even more excitement to the celebration. Krewe mascots will make special appearances throughout the event, delighting guests young and old. In addition, winners of the Toys for Tots Car Show and the Habibi Shriners will proudly lead off the festivities, escorted by Lake Charles Police Department motorcycle officers, setting the tone for a spirited and community-centered evening.

Families are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the Kid Zone, open from 4:30 PM to 6:45 PM, featuring activities designed especially for children. Guests can also take part in the popular King Cake tradition, where 12 lucky attendees will find the baby and win grand prizes.

Admission to the 12th Night Celebration is $10, with children 10 and under admitted free. Tickets are available online, at select local merchants listed below, or at the door.

 

The 12th Night Celebration is the first of many events leading up to Fat Tuesday and serves as the perfect start to another unforgettable Mardi Gras season in Southwest Louisiana.

For more information on the 12th Night Celebration and the full 2026 Mardi Gras schedule, visit www.MardiGrasSWLA.com.

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January 3          6:00 PM 12th Night at LC Event Center

January 22        6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Community Dance at Exhibition Hall

February 13      7:00 PM Merchant’s Parade

February 14      9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Gumbo Cookoff at LC Event Center Amphitheater

                         7:00 PM Lighted Boat Parade

February 15      11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Children’s Day

                         3:30 PM Children’s Parade

February 16      7:00 PM Royal Gala at LC Event Center

February 17      FAT TUESDAY – MARDI GRAS DAY

                         1:00 PM Second Line Stroll

                         2:00 PM Jeeps on Parade

                         3:00 PM Motor Gras

                         5:00 PM MGSWLA’s Krewe of Krewes Parade