World famous carnivals - enjoy the party

Once in a lifetime experiences

How many people have experienced the sheer spectacle and enjoyed the colourful sights and sounds of Mardi Gras? This event is famous the world over for a reason – and now you can join in the party on our very special departure.

Mardi Gras Special Departure 

Music, parades, picnics and floats – Mardi Gras is the last day of the carnival season and one big holiday in New Orleans! Everyone is wearing purple, green and gold, colours which signify justice, faith and power respectively, for this massive street party, and you’ll enjoy a brilliant view of the action from grandstand seating on the parade route.

Also known as ‘Fat Tuesday’, as it’s the final day of revelry before Ash Wednesday, when Lent begins – think Pancake Day but more colourful – the first New Orleans Mardi Gras parade took place in 1837. Floats first appeared in 1857 and the ones you’ll see today will each have a theme, ranging from elaborate and beautiful to funny and satirical. Everyone will be wearing a mask, as this is required by law, the original purpose being to get rid of social constraints.

Krewe members will throw out beads, doubloons, stuffed animals and more, a tradition which began in the 1870s, and experienced revellers bring a bag to hold all their trinkets.

This is a must for music fans, so visit the USA during Mardi Gras.