Get ready to let the good times roll at the Long Beach Mardi Gras celebration, returning to Shoreline Village and Rainbow Harbor from 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 1.
Billed as the largest free Mardi Gras festival on the West Coast, this popular event brings the spirit of New Orleans to Southern California with a lively parade, colorful costumes, live music and family-friendly activities.
You’ll find all the traditional Mardi Gras elements, including festive masks, thousands of shiny beads and a crowd ready for a good time.
The highlight of the celebration is the Mardi Gras parade, which winds through Shoreline Village and Rainbow Harbor, featuring elaborately decorated floats, costumed participants and local performers.
Attendees are encouraged to dress up in their best Mardi Gras attire and join the parade or cheer from the sidelines.
Live entertainment and local flavors
Throughout the day, visitors can dance along to live music performances ranging from jazz and blues to funk and zydeco. The nonstop entertainment features local bands and artists paying homage to the sounds of the French Quarter.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Mardi Gras without the food. Vendors will be on hand with a variety of delicious options to purchase, including classic New Orleans dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, beignets and more.
The restaurants and shops in Shoreline Village also participate, providing special Mardi Gras-themed menus and promotions.
Family-friendly fun
The Mardi Gras festival isn’t just for adults; there are plenty of activities for kids, too, including face painting, craft and interactive games. That said, the event is not recommended for infants or pets (unless the pets are in the parade.)
What you need to know
- Shoreline Village is at 429 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach.
- The Long Beach Mardi Gras celebration kicks off at noon and runs until 5 p.m., with the parade starting around 2 p.m.
- Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to find parking and explore the area.
- Shoreline Village offers ample parking, but spaces fill up quickly during major events.
- Visitors can also take advantage of public transportation options like the Metro Blue Line, which stops nearby, or utilize ride-sharing services.
