We all know Mardi Gras is looking quite a bit different this year, with the pandemic still a major concern for St. Tammany Parish and the entire state. Leave it to our wonderful locale to come up with some incredible, enjoyable options to celebrate the purple, green and gold of the season.

Parade Around Your Home

While the usual parades are not happening in 2021, you can still enjoy one. That’s because you can take in the sights of a parade with house floats! Dozens of homes and businesses throughout downtown Covington are fabulously decked out in the most amazing décor, showcasing the magic of Mardi Gras in full force. The house float parade continues through February 17, with details here.

All Bark and No Bite

Leave it to those on the Northshore to make sure the pups also get in on the fun of Mardi Gras. While the Krewe of Mardi Paws’ parade is a no-go, the fun goes on! A variety of contests, giveaways, doghouse floats and pop-up events are happening now through February 21. All events will practice social distancing (about three pooches apart). Check out the details for Mardi Paws to learn more about what everyone is barking about!

Let Them Eat Cake

If you are still craving the sights and sounds of Krewe parades, check out a plethora of offerings on  YouTube to satisfy that need for carnival frivolity. Of course, your enjoyment will be further heightened with a King Cake, the official treat of Mardi Gras. This delicacy can be found at grocery stores, local bakeries such as Nonna Randazzo’s or Mandeville Bake Shop.

Mardi Gras is a very special time for everyone throughout the New Orleans area and our favorite parish of St. Tammany. Of course, on the Northshore, we tend to celebrate every day as special!