Lundi Gras 2025 in New Orleans

Lundi Gras, also known as Fat Monday or Shrove Monday, is the day before Mardi Gras and a significant part of New Orleans’ Carnival season. Lundi Gras offers a unique blend of parades, traditions, and festivities that pave the way for the grand Mardi Gras Day.

Activities and Attractions

One of the most anticipated events of Lundi Gras is the ceremonial Meeting of Rex and Zulu, which symbolizes the start of Mardi Gras. Held at Spanish Plaza and Woldenberg Park along the Mississippi River, this event is accompanied by music, fireworks, and the cheerful energy of the crowd. For parade enthusiasts, two iconic evening parades roll through Uptown New Orleans: the Krewe of Proteus and the Krewe of Orpheus.

Krewe of Orpheus Parade

The Krewe of Orpheus parade, one of Lundi Gras's most celebrated events, rolls through Uptown New Orleans starting at 6 pm. Known for its extravagant floats, celebrity riders, and its signature Leviathan float featuring fiber-optic lighting, the parade showcases the artistic and musical spirit of the krewe. The route begins at Tchoupitoulas Street and Napoleon Avenue, winding through the city before concluding on Canal Street.

Krewe of Proteus Parade

The Krewe of Proteus parade begins its journey at 5:15 pm. Featuring stunning floats inspired by Greek mythology, the parade offers a historical perspective on Carnival while maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere. The procession follows a similar Uptown route as Orpheus, starting at Napoleon Avenue and Prytania Street. Proteus's timeless themes and intricate float designs make it a must-see event for locals and visitors alike.

Zulu Lundi Gras Festival

The Zulu Lundi Gras Festival, held at Woldenberg Park from 10 am to 6:30 pm, offers a vibrant prelude to Mardi Gras Day. This free event is hosted by the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club and features live music, food vendors, and craft stalls celebrating New Orleans' cultural essence.

The festival also includes meet-and-greet opportunities with Zulu royalty and showcases local talent on multiple stages. Located along the Mississippi River, the park provides a scenic backdrop for the festivities.

History

Before 1987, the Monday before Mardi Gras was traditionally a day of rest for revelers. However, with the reintroduction of Rex’s arrival at Spanish Plaza, Lundi Gras transformed into a full-fledged day of celebrations. The event’s roots lie in the city’s multicultural heritage, blending African American, Creole, and European traditions into a unique prelude to Mardi Gras Day. The addition of parades like Proteus and Orpheus further enriched the day’s offerings, creating a mix of history, mythology, and modern festivities.