About Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras — Fat Tuesday — is the climax of New Orleans' Carnival season, falling 47 days before Easter (February 9 in 2027). The countdown above computes the date automatically every year and ticks toward the biggest free party in America.
Carnival season actually starts on January 6 (Twelfth Night) and builds for weeks: krewes roll elaborate parades like Zulu, Rex, Endymion and Bacchus, riders throw beads and doubloons, and king cake — with its hidden plastic baby — appears in every office. It all stops at midnight sharp on Fat Tuesday, when Lent begins on Ash Wednesday.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Tuesday, February 9, 2027next |
| 2028 | Tuesday, February 29, 2028 |
| 2029 | Tuesday, February 13, 2029 |
| 2030 | Tuesday, March 5, 2030 |
| 2031 | Tuesday, February 25, 2031 |
FAQ
When is Mardi Gras 2027?
Tuesday, February 9, 2027 — always 47 days before Easter, so the date moves each year.
Why does the Mardi Gras date change?
It is tied to Easter: Fat Tuesday is the eve of Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent.
What does Mardi Gras mean?
French for "Fat Tuesday" — the last day of feasting before the fasting season of Lent.