Mardi Gras Day, popularly known as "Fat Tuesday," marks the grand finale of the historic Carnival season. Celebrated on the day before Ash Wednesday, it serves as a final day of indulgence before the fasting season of Lent begins. While it is not a nationwide federal holiday, it is observed as an official state public holiday in Louisiana and across several Gulf Coast communities.
US Mardi Gras Day 2026, 2027 & 2028
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 | February 9 | Tue | Mardi Gras Day | AL & LA |
| 2028 | February 29 | Tue | Mardi Gras Day | AL & LA |
Upcoming Mardi Gras Day Calendar Schedule
Because the date is directly tethered to the lunar-based scheduling of Easter, Fat Tuesday shifts dynamically on the calendar each year:
- Mardi Gras Day 2027: Tuesday, February 9, 2027
- Mardi Gras Day 2028: Tuesday, February 29, 2028 (A rare Leap Day occurrence!)
How is Mardi Gras Celebrated in the United States?
Mardi Gras has evolved from a traditional religious custom into a massive, multi-week display of public performance, artistic expression, and regional culinary arts.
Krewe Parades & Throws
Social clubs known as "krewes" build massive, ornate floats that parade through city centers like New Orleans and Mobile. Riders wear decorative masks and toss colorful strings of beads, doubloons, and toys to spectators.
The Official Colors
Festivities are strictly styled around three symbolic colors established in 1872: Purple (representing justice), Green (representing faith), and Gold (representing power). These shades cover everything from house decorations to outfits.
King Cakes & Fine Food
The defining treat of the season is the King Cake—a ring-shaped pastry laced with cinnamon, frosted in the holiday colors, and baked with a tiny plastic baby hidden inside. Finding the baby brings good luck and responsibility for buying the next cake!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Louisiana officially closes state government offices, courts, and public school networks. Additionally, state holiday laws in parts of Alabama (such as Mobile County) and Mississippi offer public closures for the celebration.
Mardi Gras Day is permanently set exactly 47 days prior to Easter Sunday. Because Easter moves based on the lunar cycle, Fat Tuesday can land on any Tuesday between February 3 and March 9.
Yes, all primary street parading events throughout New Orleans, Mobile, and Biloxi are completely open and free to the public. Visitors only pay if they choose to buy specialized grandstand seating or tickets to private balcony parties.
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