Mardi Gras 2026 has arrived across the Houston region, with La Porte emerging as a top suburban pick for families while Galveston continues to anchor the season with more than 20 parades and heightened security.
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Mardi Gras 2026 celebrations are in full swing throughout the Houston area, with suburban street festivals experiencing significant growth alongside the festivities. Galveston remains a focal point of the season, featuring grand parades and enhanced security measures.
Organizers in La Porte are promoting their street festival on Saturday, Feb. 21, as a family-friendly option, aiming to provide a contrast to the large crowds typically seen on the island. The La Porte Mardi Gras celebration is set to take place at 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., turning downtown into a vibrant mini French Quarter. The event will feature a “March to Mardi Gras” umbrella parade and a King Cake-eating contest, promising a festive atmosphere for attendees.
City promoters have characterized the event as a showcase of the “best of” Carnival spirit, highlighting its appeal in contrast to the congestion typically found at larger parades. The festival features a variety of attractions, including giant slides, carnival games, and live zydeco music, all along Main Street. Both admission and parking will be offered at no cost.
Mardi Gras! Galveston is set to take place from February 6 to 17, featuring an impressive lineup of over 20 parades for attendees to enjoy. One of the early highlights of the festivities is the Yachty Gras Boat Parade, scheduled for 7 p.m. on February 7, near the Kemah Boardwalk. During this event, decorated boats will toss beads to the enthusiastic crowds gathered along the shoreline.
In Houston, restaurants and cultural venues are embracing the season with enthusiasm. Brennan’s of Houston is set to host its annual “Wig Out” dinners along with Creole-themed meals from February 7 to February 17. The Children’s Museum Houston is set to host a Mardi Gras celebration on February 12, featuring a roaming jazz band and mask-making activities for children.
The Pearland Town Center Pavilion, located south of Houston, is set to host a Mardi Gras festival on February 7, featuring live music and crawfish.
Regional planners have observed an increase in suburban “Main Street” festivals this year, indicating a growing demand for localized events that successfully blend authenticity with accessibility. Visitors attending larger gated events in Galveston can anticipate bag checks and a noticeable security presence. Numerous Fat Tuesday celebrations scheduled for February 17 are adjusting their start times to earlier in the day to better fit weekday schedules.
As the 2026 Carnival season approaches, officials anticipate robust attendance throughout the region, with vibrant displays of purple, green, and gold adorning the streets from La Porte to Galveston.
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