Galveston officials say all Mardi Gras parades and events will continue as planned despite rain in the forecast Saturday. The island will host 12 parades this weekend, including the Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade, as part of its 115th annual celebration.
City officials in Galveston have confirmed that the Mardi Gras festivities will proceed as scheduled this weekend, undeterred by the potential for rain. The island's 115th annual celebration will feature 12 parades taking place from Friday through Sunday.
The second weekend of Mardi Gras is set to reach its peak with the Grand Night Parade on Saturday night, an event organized by the Knights of Momus, recognized as Galveston’s oldest and largest krewe.
“We are committed to holding the parade, barring any hurricane,” stated Johnny Listowski, a representative of the Knights of Momus.
City officials are highlighting Galveston’s Mardi Gras as the third-largest celebration in the nation and the largest in Texas, attracting over 400,000 visitors each year. The celebration concludes on February 17 with a grand finale parade.
Organizers have announced that Saturday’s Grand Night Parade will showcase between 600 and 800 participants, approximately 28 floats, up to 20 bands, and one or two dance groups.
“The parade serves as the concluding event of our Mardi Gras celebrations,” stated Peggy Listowski, executive secretary for the Knights of Momus. “The den party has taken place.” The event has concluded successfully. Officials have announced that this day marks the final celebration.
Despite the anticipated rain, city officials have announced that parades, parties, and entertainment will proceed as planned. Kurt Koopmann, the spokesperson for the City of Galveston, stated that while individual krewes have the autonomy to decide on specific events, the overall schedule will remain unchanged.
Authorities are advising visitors to expect traffic delays and to allow extra travel time, particularly in the downtown entertainment district.
The closures will begin at 2 p.m. on Friday. Multiple streets in the downtown area will be closed to vehicle traffic and will transition to pedestrian-only access until Sunday night.
Areas affected by the closures encompass Harborside Drive to Mechanic Street, 20th to 25th streets, and Market Street to New Strand Street. The closure of a section of 25th Street, extending from Market Street to Harborside Drive, has been announced. Authorities expect the streets to reopen by 11:45 p.m. on Sunday.
Supplementary traffic impacts are set to commence on Saturday at 8:30 a.m., with access streets and sections of Seawall Boulevard closing until as late as 10 p.m. Motorists heading downtown are advised to utilize Harborside Drive to circumvent closures associated with the parade, as stated in a city news release.
The City of Galveston has announced that updates on parking and street closures are available on its official website.
Following a triumphant opening weekend, officials anticipate that the second weekend will attract the largest crowds and feature signature events as Mardi Gras 2026 concludes on the island.
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