Galveston Mardi Gras 2025

Galveston Mardi Gras 2025

Mardi Gras! Galveston is the third largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, attracting more than 300,000 attendees annually. The two-week celebration is best known for its lavish parades held on the streets of the city’s historic downtown and beachfront.

• Top Tip! – Weekends are especially busy, so book your hotel well in advance. We recommend the Tremont House, a charming 4 star hotel with a great rooftop bar in the center of town.

The Event

• Next Edition: Friday 21st February – Tuesday 4th March 2025.
• During Mardi Gras! Galveston, the island comes alive with extravagant parades, more than 50 galas and festive events, bead throwing, exhibits, live entertainment and the best Gulf Coast cuisine in the world.
• Galveston Mardi Gras has been celebrated for over a century. Visitors to the island  gather in Galveston’s downtown entertainment district and along the beachfront on Seawall Boulevard to see flashy floats, high-stepping marching bands and dazzling dancers.
• With over 23 different parades taking place, the streets are alive with music and a party atmosphere throughout the festivities. The one big parade you don’t want to miss is the final parade on the last Tuesday of the event.
• Two other’s we recommend include the Umbrella Birgade (on the first Firday) and the night parade (on the final Saturday).

Krewe of Aquarius Fat Tuesday Parade, 6:30 p.m. (Entertainment District)

• Tuesday 4th Mar, 2025 – Mystic Krewe of Aquarius presents its Fat Tuesday parade in the downtown entertainment district.
• This grand parade, featuring marching bands, dance teams and dozens of lighted floats, will mark the final hours of Mardi Gras! – From 6.90 pm
• Check out the top hotels close to the Galveston Mardi Gras parade.

Parade Route

• The parade begins at begins at 28th and Market Street, through Postoffice street and Strand historic district.
• Stay close to all of the Mardi Gras events, bars and parties at The Harbor House Hotel, with spacious rooms and perfect location, rated “Wonderful” by guests. 

Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade

• Awaiting dates – 8:30pm – The Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade – Record-breaking parade of decorated umbrellas in memory of Mary Pregler. – Near The Tremont Hotel.

Saturday – Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade

• Saturday 1st Mar, 2025 – 6:00pm – Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade – The oldest krewe presents a grand parade with floats and bands. – Begins on Seawall, travels to 25th street, enters Entertainment District at 25th and Mechanic, and goes down the Strand.

The Gay Mardi Gras in Galveston.

• Next Drag Shows For Carnival – Saturday March 1st & Sunday March 2nd 2025.
• One of the many beautiful things about Galveston is that it’s so LGBTQ-friendly. A queer Galveston mainstay going 50 years strong,
• Robert’s Lafitte hosts drag shows and pageants with a close-knit ambiance that makes every guest a local.
• 23rd Street Station – Popular piano bar with shows, live performances and a warm welcome from owner Todd MacKenzie.

Where to stay in Gay Galveston?

The following Galveston hotels are close to all of the Carnival celebrations:

The San Luis Resort Spa,   The Tremont House,   Coppersmith Inn B&B,   Hotel Galvez and Spa