Did you know that Mardi Gras dates all the way back to the Middle Ages? European Christians would gear up for the Lenten season of fasting by indulging in the days before Ash Wednesday, which is where the idea of Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras, first began. Through the years, the celebration of indulging crossed the ocean, expanded and evolved into what many think of when they conjure up images of Mardi Gras today: New Orleans, beads, King cake and partying.
Although New Orleans has the most well-known Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, it is far from the only one. Because of New Orleans’ proximity to Texas, the Lone Star state sees a few of its own “everything is bigger in Texas”-sized celebrations. And if you’re looking to live it up before the Lenten season begins, you’ll want to book a getaway to the Alamo City itself, San Antonio. Bring your beads, pack your green, purple and gold and get ready for a great time, San Antonio-style, this Mardi Gras season.
Three ways to celebrate Mardi Gras in San Antonio
- Catch the Bud Light Mardi Gras Festival & River Parades plus River Walk Royalty Coronation on March 1, 2025. Partygoers are encouraged to dress in beads and costumes and come prepared for a great time! Food, drinks and souvenirs will be available for the cost but the party itself is free for all. Enjoy music, vendors, entertainment, a festive boat parade and more.
- Let the good times roll at Mardi Gras at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. This is one family-friendly celebration you’ll have to see to believe! You’ll get to enjoy exciting performances, live music and loads of surprises- not to mention the Mardi Gras parade awash with festive floats, lots of glitz and glam and, of course, beads galore! The party starts January 18 and runs through March 16, 2025.
- Get in the Mardi Gras spirit with a festive celebration at SeaWorld San Antonio. Guests to this park can enjoy a variety of New Orleans-inspried cuisine, including jambalaya, shrimp etouffee, and muffuletta sandwiches, to get a true taste of the Big Easy. Then settle in to enjoy live performances, street performers and a parade filled with beads, music and excitement. There will even be educational talks about Cajun critters for an on-theme learning experience for all ages. The party runs from January 18 through March 2, 2025.
Laissez les bons temps rouler!
San Antonio lodging
Head to San Antonio this spring for Mardi Gras fun and beyond, and, while you’re there, book a stay at the Alamo Fiesta RV Park in Boerne. Conveniently located on the outskirts of San Antonio in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, Alamo Fiesta RV Park is a quaint spot to stay a day, a weekend, a week or even longer! This spot is pet-friendly, not far from San Antonio’s vibrant downtown area and has both a pool and a playground- and more!- for guests to enjoy. Happy travels!
Laissez les bons temps rouler