Mardi Gras 2025 in Orange Beach, Alabama: Let the Good Times Roll
When most people think of Mardi Gras, New Orleans often comes to mind, but did you know that the tradition began right here in South Alabama? The first Mardi Gras celebration in Mobile dates back to 1719, and the spirit of this vibrant festival quickly spread to Baldwin County, including our beloved Orange Beach. Mardi Gras 2025 is shaping up to be another spectacular season filled with parades, floats, and the irresistible charm of the Gulf Coast.
Mardi Gras in Orange Beach
In Orange Beach, Mardi Gras is more than a celebration; it’s a community tradition that brings locals and visitors together. Crowds line the streets to catch colorful beads, MoonPies, stuffed animals, and other exciting throws from parade floats. This year, the Mystics of Pleasure Parade will roll through Orange Beach on Saturday, March 1, at 6 p.m., and the official Orange Beach Parade will take place on Fat Tuesday, March 4, at 2 p.m.
Whether you’re attending your first Mardi Gras or you’re a seasoned pro, Orange Beach’s parades are a must-see. The atmosphere is electric, and the creativity on display in the floats and costumes is unmatched.
Mardi Gras Lingo to Know
If you’re new to Mardi Gras, here are some key terms that will help you get into the spirit:
- Throws: The items tossed from floats, like beads, doubloons, and MoonPies.
- MoonPies: A Mardi Gras staple—a marshmallow-filled cake in flavors like chocolate, banana, and salted caramel.
- King Cake: A delicious braided cake decorated in purple, green, and gold, with a hidden plastic baby inside.
- Krewe: A Mardi Gras organization that hosts parades and balls.
- Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler: French for “Let the good times roll!”
Tips for Enjoying the Parades
Mardi Gras parades are all about fun, but a little preparation goes a long way:
- Travel Lightly: Bring a large bag for all the throws you’ll catch but leave valuables at home.
- Arrive Early: Find a good spot along the route and avoid last-minute parking headaches.
- Check the Weather: Be ready with a jacket or umbrella if needed.
- Stay Safe: Follow barricade rules and avoid jumping into the parade route.
Dining and Things to Do During Mardi Gras
Before or after the parades, Orange Beach offers plenty of ways to extend the celebration:
- Doc’s Seafood Shack: Known for its fried shrimp and casual Gulf Coast vibe, it’s a great spot to refuel.
- The Gulf: Enjoy waterfront views and a creative menu that’s perfect for relaxing after the festivities.
- Zeke's Landing (Orange Beach): Offering fresh Gulf seafood and a relaxed atmosphere, Zeke's Landing is the perfect place to wind down after catching a parade.
- Flora-Bama Lounge: Known for its lively atmosphere and iconic location on the state line, it’s the place to continue the party.
The Magic of the Mobile Bay Jubilee
One unique aspect of Mardi Gras on the Gulf Coast is its connection to the natural phenomenon known as the Mobile Bay Jubilee. While not directly tied to the season, the jubilee highlights the area's rich aquatic life. If you’re in the area during summer months, keep an eye out for this incredible event, where crabs, shrimp, and fish swarm the shoreline.
Fat Tuesday and Future Dates
The grand finale of Mardi Gras is Fat Tuesday, which falls on March 4, 2025, this year. In addition to the Orange Beach Parade at 2 p.m., you can catch the Gulf Shores Parade at 10 a.m. If you’re already planning for future celebrations, here are the next few Fat Tuesday dates:
- 2026: February 17
- 2027: February 9
Final Thoughts
Mardi Gras in Orange Beach is a time to celebrate the vibrant culture, history, and community spirit of the Gulf Coast. From catching MoonPies and beads at the parades to enjoying local seafood and Gulf views, there’s no better way to experience this cherished tradition.
If you’re thinking about making Orange Beach your home—or your go-to vacation spot—I’d love to help you find the perfect property to enjoy the Gulf Coast lifestyle year-round. Let the good times roll, and happy Mardi Gras!
Meredith Amon is a local real estate advisor, licensed in Alabama and Florida. She specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the buying and selling of homes along the Gulf Coast.
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