Lake Charles Moves Mardi Gras Parades to Daytime in 2027

Lake Charles, Louisiana - Changes will be coming to Mardi Gras in Lake Charles next year. The big change, announced on Wednesday, is that Mardi Gras parades in Lake Charles will now take place earlier in the day due to safety concerns.

This year, Mardi Gras came early, but next year it will be even earlier. Mardi Gras will be held on Tuesday, February 9, 2027.

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It feels like you can't go outside these days without being concerned about something potentially happening. During the Mardi Gras fun this past year, there were two shootings after the parade, and along the parade route.

Because of that, parade times have now been moved up so all events take place during daylight hours.

“This isn’t a knee-jerk reaction. We sat down, talked about it, and discussed it in detail. We made decisions that we believe will improve safety and improve tourism,” said Mayor Marshall Simien.

“At the end of the day, we want people to feel safe coming here, have a great time, and be able to get home safely," said Simien.

It isn't much of a change, but it is certainly notable. The new parade schedule times for Mardi Gras Day in Lake Charles are below...

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NEW Lake Charles Mardi Gras Parade Schedule 2027

• Second Line Stroll – 11:00 a.m.
• Jeeps on Parade – 12:00 p.m. (noon)
• Motor Gras Parade – 1:00 p.m.
• Krewe of Krewes – 3:00 p.m.

City leaders believe having the parades during daylight will help reduce problems and make the celebrations safer for everyone.

With this news, go ahead and mark your calendar for a great Mardi Gras season in 2027!