Welcome to planDisney, Jessica!
I'm so glad you stopped by as you prepare to
let the good times roll! Although I'm a Georgia girl, I married into a family of lifelong Louisianans over a decade ago, so I've experienced my fair share of Mardi Gras celebrations. With this in mind, I can confidently say that if you can't be in the bayou on Fat Tuesday, Disney's Port Orleans Resorts are the next best thing!
Historically, a parade of golf carts enthusiastically decorated by Cast Members has thrilled Mardi Gras-minded Mouseketeers each Fat Tuesday as it travels between
Disney's Port Orleans - Riverside and
Port Orleans - French Quarter. Although no official announcement has been released regarding details of this year's parade, a helpful Cast Member shared that the parade 'floats' were in progress during my stay at Port Orleans - French Quarter in mid-February, so I can confirm that the parade was on the calendar at that time.
In years past, the parade has kicked off around 10 AM near the Acadian House at Port Orleans - Riverside and followed a scenic path along the Sassagoula River. Of course, information is always subject to change, so I suggest arriving a bit early to inquire about festivities directly at the Resort hotel's lobby. This would also allow you enough time to celebrate the occasion with a breakfast of beignets and café au lait at
Scat Cat's Club.
One final tip before I send you down the bayou, Jessica: Since Disney's Port Orleans Resorts are connected to Disney Springs by the Sassagoula River, you might consider parking at Disney Springs and enjoying a festive
boat ride down the Sassagoula River to the French Quarter. After all, what's more New Orleans than a day filled with boats and beads?
I hope this helps you plan your day in The Most Magical Place on Earth. You're
almost there!
Thinking Happy Thoughts,
Lizzie