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February holds a unique significance for many, especially as it coincides with the vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations. This month represents a blend of personal milestones and cultural festivities that ignite joy and excitement.
The allure of Mardi Gras resonates with countless individuals. While holidays like Christmas evoke warmth and nostalgia, the thrill of the Mardi Gras season is unparalleled. This is particularly true when the festivities align with personal celebrations, transforming the city into a vibrant party atmosphere.
The roots of my Mardi Gras passion
My enthusiasm for Mardi Gras is deeply influenced by my hometown of New Roads, Louisiana, which boasts two notable features. The first is the beloved False River, where many families create lasting memories at their camps. The second, and more significant to me, is the Community Center Carnival Parade, recognized as the second-oldest Mardi Gras Day parade in Louisiana, having first captivated audiences in 1922.
Childhood memories of parades
As a child, Mardi Gras filled me with excitement, marked by the anticipation of two key events: the morning parade hosted by the Community Center and the afternoon parade organized by the New Roads Lions Club. I had the incredible opportunity to ride on a float during the afternoon parade, once portraying a spectator at a U.S. vs. USSR boxing match and another time as a patriotic Betsy Ross sewing an early American flag.
One of my most cherished memories occurred in 1994 when my father was crowned the King of the New Roads Lions Club Parade. I proudly served as his Maid, sharing in a family tradition that holds a special place in our hearts. This experience reinforced my love for Carnival and the sense of community it fosters.
New adventures in Lafayette
Since 1994, Lafayette has been my new home, and as I attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (previously known as USL), my anticipation for February grew each year. My enthusiasm for the parades and balls blossomed. However, starting my job at the Acadiana Center for the Arts (AcA) in 2026 introduced an exciting new dimension to my Mardi Gras experience.
AcA: The ultimate parade day hub
AcA serves as an ideal hub for enjoying the festivities on parade day. Whether planning to catch the Krewe des Chiens or the Children’s Parade, the center offers everything needed for a festive experience. The café is open, galleries showcase fresh exhibitions, and having access to clean facilities amid the parade hustle is a significant advantage.
This Mardi Gras season, I invite everyone to join me in Downtown Lafayette for the celebrations. Take advantage of your membership at AcA for free admission, enjoy a warm beverage or festive cocktail, and explore the galleries while waiting for the next parade. Downtown features numerous opportunities to keep the excitement alive between the Children’s Parade and the Krewe of Bonaparte. In the Lagniappe section below, you’ll find insider tips on how to enhance your afternoon while supporting our vibrant Downtown restaurants and businesses.
If you find yourself near AcA on Saturday, February 14, I encourage you to stop by, say hello, and celebrate with me as the festivities unfold inside and out. Together, we can raise a toast to AcA and our shared love for the enchanting spirit of Mardi Gras.