When it comes to New Orleans Mardi Gras, one parade stands out from the rest as the biggest and boldest of them all – the krewe of Endymion! 

Founded in 1966, Endymion has blossomed into one of the most spectacular parades of Carnival season, second only to Bacchus in size. It’s known for its magnificent, giant floats stretching upwards of 50 feet long and several stories tall! As you wander the parade route dazzling floats will tower over you with vibrant, elaborate designs and animations that seem to defy physics.

Riding along these hand-crafted floats are many of Endymion’s celebrity grand marshals. In the past, dynamic headliners like Elton John, Diana Ross, Nick Jonas, and Maroon 5 have led the festivities. 

Leading the activities is the parade’s legendary captain, Extravaganus I, standing tall as a centerpiece float while he rolls through waving his glowing scepter and orchestrating the party. Talk about King of Carnival!

With over 37 incredible floats, hundreds of distinguished gentlemen riders throwing souvenirs, two dozen dance teams bringing the beat, talented marching bands like St. Augustine’s, and thousands of revelers, Endymion knows how to get NOLA shaking on a Saturday night!

After the parade, Endymion throws one of the largest balls of the year in the Superdome: Endymion Extravaganza! Sting performed at the 2024 ball.

Endymion rolls on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 4:15 p.m. 

As one of the most popular parades of Mardi Gras, we recommend arriving early if you want to get a good spot. Some people will arrive very early in the morning to reserve a large spot for their group (think folding chairs, bbq, tables, the works!). If you don’t mind standing a couple rows back, you can get there closer to the parade start. No matter what time you arrive - even in the middle of the parade - you’ll never be more than a few rows back!

We recommend bringing folding chairs and a cooler (full of drinks!) to the parade. If you want to reserve a larger space, bring a tarp and a folding table too. If you’re flying in, Walmart is a great place to shop (there’s an entire Mardi Gras section). 

For more information on Endymion, check out their website: www.endymion.org

While all of our homes are within a 10 minute drive of the parade, we have two amazing homes that are just a 2 min walk to the parade route! Both have private heated pools, outdoor grills, spacious living areas, and comfy beds. And the perennially Mardi Gras question “where do I go to the bathroom?” is solved! These homes are the perfect home base for watching Endymion. See Below!