In Pensacola, Mardi Gras season unofficially begins the moment the New Year confetti settles, and the first King Cakes hit local bakery shelves. From January through Fat Tuesday, the city comes alive with parades, beads, and a celebration that feels distinctly Pensacola, where historic Mardi Gras traditions meet laid-back Gulf Coast living. As one of Florida’s oldest Mardi Gras celebrations, Pensacola offers a more family-friendly, community-driven experience than larger cities, while still delivering all the color, culture, and excitement. Whether you’re a longtime local, new resident, or planning a winter getaway, here’s everything you need to know to enjoy Mardi Gras in Pensacola this season.
While New Orleans may be the epicenter of Mardi Gras and Mobile, Alabama is recognized as its birthplace in the United States, Pensacola has long held its own rich Mardi Gras traditions. With celebrations dating back more than a century, Pensacola boasts one of the oldest Mardi Gras celebrations in Florida. Over time, the celebration has evolved into a full season of festivities, including vibrant parades, elegant balls, waterfront celebrations, and family-friendly events that welcome both locals and visitors alike.
Top Mardi Gras Events in Pensacola
Pensacola Mardi Gras is packed with events from January through early March, offering something for everyone, from traditional parades to unique Gulf Coast celebrations. Known for being especially family-friendly, the season features kid-focused parades, interactive activities, face painting, and craft workshops, making it easy for families of all ages to join in the fun together. Alongside these daytime festivities, Pensacola’s Mardi Gras krewes also host elegant, ticketed masquerade balls throughout the season, complete with live music, formal attire, and a chance to experience the more traditional and glamorous side of Mardi Gras.
Mardi Gras Parades in the Pensacola Area
The highlight of the season, Mardi Gras parades take place across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, blending classic krewes with coastal flair. Below is the full lineup of 2026 Pensacola-area Mardi Gras parades:
- Milton Mardi Gras Parade
January 31, 2026 | 3:00 PM
Downtown Milton along Stewart Street - Navarre Krewe of Jesters Mardi Gras Parade
February 7, 2026 | 1:00 PM
Gulf Boulevard, Navarre Beach - Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Mardi Gras Parade
February 13, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Downtown Pensacola - Pensacola Mardi Gras Grand Parade
February 14, 2026 | 2:00 PM–7:00 PM
Palafox Street & Government Street, Downtown Pensacola - Krewe of Wrecks Mardi Gras Parade
February 15, 2026 | 2:00 PM
Via DeLuna Boulevard, Pensacola Beach
Unique Parades You Shouldn’t Miss
Pensacola’s Mardi Gras season includes several one-of-a-kind events that showcase the area’s personality and love for the outdoors:
- Pirates of Lost Treasure Flotilla Boat Parade
February 15, 2026 | 11:00 AM–2:00 PM
A festive boat parade traveling from Sunset Grill to the Flora-Bama in Perdido Key - Paw-di Gras Parade
February 1, 2026
Downtown Pensacola
This beloved “paw-rade” features nearly 500 dogs and benefits local animal shelters and rescue organizations - Kids and Kritters Parade
January 24, 2026 | 1:00 PM
Casino Beach parking lot, Pensacola Beach
A fun, mini-float walking parade for families, kids, and pets—perfect for animal lovers of all ages
Tips for Enjoying Mardi Gras Parades in Pensacola
- Arrive Early: Parades draw large crowds, so arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Bring chairs, blankets, and snacks to make your wait comfortable.
- Dress Festively: Embrace the spirit of Mardi Gras by wearing purple, green, and gold—the traditional colors symbolizing justice, faith, and power.
- Catch the Beads: Bring a bag or bucket to collect beads, trinkets, stuffed animals, moon pies, and other goodies thrown from the floats.
- Plan Your Parking: Downtown Pensacola and Pensacola Beach can get crowded, so consider carpooling or using rideshare services. For Downtown Pensacola, we recommend parking north of the parade route for an easier exit after the festivities. If you're attending a beach parade, plan to spend a few hours enjoying the beach before and after the event! Keep in mind, this year will be extra chaotic with the construction on Palafox on Downtown Pensacola so plan ahead and arrive early.
If you’re visiting Pensacola for Mardi Gras, you’ll find plenty of great places to stay, from beachfront resorts to charming bed-and-breakfasts. Beyond the parades, the heart of the celebration is the food. Local restaurants embrace the season with favorites like gumbo, beignets, and the ultimate Mardi Gras staple—King Cake.
King Cake is a beloved tradition in Pensacola, and local bakeries go all out during Mardi Gras season. Stay tuned as we share the best places to grab a slice (or two!) while you’re in town.
Our favorite Places to Buy a King Cake
- Smallcakes brings in authentic New Orleans Gambino King Cakes from New Orleans. They also make an in-house King Cake Cupcake.
- J's Bakery and Café- makes a traditional King Cake from scratch as well as an assortment of fruit flavors. They are now offering on online ordering option!
- Adonna’s Garden St. From traditional cakes and cannoli king cake treats to Mardi Gras themed resin shot boards and cake knives this is a must to check out.
- Apple Market- bring in authentic New Orleans King Cakes.
- Chrisoula’s Cheesecake Shoppe- King Cake and Cheesecake in one. These are made from scratch cheesecakes are amazing.
- Indulgence Bakehouse- A smaller local baker but so many different flavor options, get on her preorder list quick.
- Milton Quality Bakery makes a strawberry and a cream cheese King Cake that we love!
Mardi Gras in Pensacola is a celebration of community, culture, and joy. With its mix of traditional festivities and coastal charm, it’s an event that everyone can enjoy. Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to laissez les bons temps rouler—let the good times roll! For more information on parade schedules and events, visit Pensacola Mardi Gras.
