SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER, La. — Shreveport-Bossier officials announced the 2026 Mardi Gras season will begin in mid-January, with events scheduled from Jan. 15 through Fat Tuesday on Feb. 17.
The season will launch with MLK DreamFest, a weeklong celebration honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., running from Jan. 15 to Jan. 24. The event will serve as the official kickoff to the region’s Mardi Gras activities and will include cultural programming, community events and entertainment across Shreveport-Bossier.
Parade season will continue over several weekends, with confirmed events including the Krewe of Sobek Parade on Jan. 17, the Krewe of Harambee Parade on Jan. 19, the Krewe of Centaur Parade on Feb. 7, the Krewe of Gemini Parade on Feb. 14, and the Krewe of Highland Parade on Feb. 15. Most parades will take place in downtown Shreveport, with the Highland parade set for the Highland Historic District.
“Shreveport-Bossier offers visitors the opportunity to experience Mardi Gras in a way that is accessible, affordable and family-friendly,” said Stacy Brown, president and chief executive officer of Visit Shreveport-Bossier. “With an extended season and multiple parade weekends, visitors can plan trips that fit their schedules while enjoying a traditional Louisiana Mardi Gras atmosphere.”
Additional events are expected to be announced as planning continues. Organizers said the extended Mardi Gras calendar is designed to accommodate visitors and residents across multiple weekends.
Mardi Gras in Shreveport-Bossier spans both cities and includes events supported by local hospitality, dining and entertainment businesses. Visit Shreveport-Bossier is the official destination marketing organization for Caddo and Bossier parishes and promotes the region for leisure travel, meetings and events.