About 8 miles or a ten-minute drive from the rowdy crowds on Bourbon Street is Family Gras, a free celebration of family and fun on the neutral ground (median) across from Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie. More than 80,000 people of all ages attend this event which takes place this year on February 2 & 3.
Parades that roll next to Family Gras festivities include Krewe of Excalibur on Friday night and the Krewe of Caesar on Sunday. Your family will also enjoy famous New Orleans foods and desserts at the Flambeau Food Court. In past years, options have included jambalaya, crawfish pasta, muffulettas, pizza, gator-on-a-stick, bread pudding and king cake. Plus, you can rock out at the outdoor concerts starring Cyndi Lauper, Michael McDonald and John Oats on the Mardi Gras Plaza stage. Local artists in the line-up include David Batiste and the Gladiators, Deacon John and the Ivories, The Imagination Movers and Remedy.
There’s also an Art Market that offers local art, photography and hand-crafted jewelry. What’s more, the Kids' Court has tons of fun for the 12 and younger set, including face painting, hand-wax art, and interactive games.
For information about the VIP 2-day weekend Royal Pass that gives you backstage access, premium stage viewing and VIP food and beverage, click here.
Most hotels in Metairie offer complimentary breakfast and parking. Click here to find hotels near the Family Gras parade route.
« back to Tips
