Fat Tuesday 2026: Sights and Sounds of Mardi Gras in New Orleans

The streets of New Orleans were filled once again for the ultimate day of the Carnival season. Large crowds gathered to catch all kinds of throws, to witness the elaborate costumes, and embrace the vibrant energy that defines Fat Tuesday in Louisiana. This spectacle was captured in extensive photos and video footage from the day's parade routes.

While the visuals from New Orleans show a city in full celebration mode, the 2026 Mardi Gras season across Louisiana was plagued by serious issues throughout the state. Reports coming in from various parishes paint a troubling picture of the festivities. With incidents that cast a shadow over the season.

But even with those issues, Louisiana's Mardi Gras season still pushed through. Wrapping up from the streets of New Orleans to a bridge over the Red River in Shreveport in spectacular style.

Violence and Disruptions Across Louisiana

In New Orleans, authorities dealt with the actions of the float riders themselves, as multiple floats were emptied mid-route, due to aggressive throws. Meanwhile, in Shreveport...a woman was arrested following an altercation that took place directly on the parade route. Video of that issue went viral, and led to charges being filed.

There were more serious situations elsewhere in the state. With reports of severe violence erupting during Mardi Gras celebrations. Police in Jeanerette are actively pursuing two women wanted for an aggravated vehicular assault that occurred during a parade. The East Feliciana Parish Sheriff's Office is investigating a tragic shooting in Clifton that injured a six-year-old child, and is expected to leave a woman paralyzed.

Also in Iberia Parish, another man was arrested for firing his gun during a Mardi Gras parade; no one was injured during that shooting.

The issues weren't limited to Louisiana residents either. Well known actor Shia LaBeouf was arrested in New Orleans after being accused of getting into bar fight. He has since been released from jail.

The Parade Must Go On

Even with all of the issues during the Mardi Gras season this year, the Grand Bal events still took place, king cakes were still cut, and parades still rolled. Helping to prove the power of Mardi Gras in Louisiana.

Fat Tuesday in New Orleans went off like nothing happened. Parades for Zulu and Rex both rolled under sunny skies with thousands of revelers. See the pictures here...