Mardi Gras

Whether or you are traveling to New Orleans or staying local with your friends at a theme party, there is a special Tuesday in February each year that is a time to celebrate -- Mardi Gras! Costumes, masks, beads, hats, purples, greens, golds, fun, naughtiness, laughter, excitement is in the air! Go big or stay home! Dress the part and the fun will follow!

One of the best things about Mardi Gras is that anything goes. That means you can dress up as much as you want and have a great time. It's the one season of the year when you can dress up as anything imaginable. There are contests for costumes in every part of the city, and the crowd-watching is as much fun as the parades. Bring an inexpensive camera, one you won't fuss over or need to protect.

Many people love dressing up, and it definitely makes the day more fun! Official colors are purple, gold, and green, but anything goes. So, something like our Mardi Gras Tuxedo Vest would fit right in to the festivities. Whether you design shirts with your friends, get your bodies painted, or throw on some masks, get into the spirit! Whatever your outfit is, make sure you choose wisely because you will likely be wearing it up to 12 hours so dress comfortably.

If you decide to go the extra mile and wear something completely original and unique, there are even costume contests around the city. If you are completely not into dressing up for the occasion and refuse to even throw on a mask, enjoy crowd watching the many people who do.

Here are a few additional tips when preparing for Mardi Gras:

• Plan ahead. Most of the hotels in walking distance of the French Quarter hotels require minimum 3, 4, or 5-day stays. Make your reservations early, and if you planning on packing people in a room, make sure to call about hotel security around Mardi Gras. Some hotels often enforce hotel key room checks or wristband checks for entrance. It is also not necessary to get a room directly in the French Quarter. Making the cross over canal St. during a parade can be tricky, if not impossible, and you don’t want to be stuck and unable to get a cab ride before you need to leave.
• Check the weather. Mardi Gras happens despite any rain, shine, or blizzard. Be prepared with some layers. Ponchos and umbrellas can also be purchased at hotels or almost any store on the street. If you have one of your own, make sure to pack it.
• Relax. Mardi Gras weekend is meant for celebration and carefree fun. Do not stress your vacation away. So, it’s Februrary, and you have officially not booked a hotel but want to go to Mardi Gras anyway? Call hotels non-stop and there are often cancellations. Another option is staying in the outskirts such as in Mettarie and driving early into downtown to celebrate the festivities. If you are planning late, be realistic. Be happy with what you get and stay optimistic and in good spirits.
• Arrive early. Whether your prerogative is to hit the bars or catch a parade, do so early. Find your parking and grab a space. Parade spots go quickly. Some annual goers actually stake out their spot at 6am for the infamous Bacchaus parade that doesn’t start until 12 hours later. There are parades throughout the day that keep them happy, but arriving early is a must.
• Check out the parades. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is known for some fairly raunchy things, but parade going is definitely still family friendly. Each “Krewe” interacts with the crowd and throw trinkets – ranging from beads and bags to cups and stuff animals – toward the jumping crowds in the streets. Make eye contact with a krew member and you’ll be sure to get some prizes. If you want even more attention, make a sign displaying how far you came!
• Don’t bring expensive items. Keep your wallet, your ID, and other important possessions in a safe area on your body, a.k.a. not your back pocket. If you don’t have one of those, small sports drawstring backpacks work, or don’t bring anything other than some cash, your ID, and phone.

Whether you choose a curve-hugging short dress or sparkling sequined cocktail dress, you can't go wrong at Buy4LessTuxedo. On your way to a ball? We have the latest styles and trends in evening wear, from sexy tuxedos to formal dresses with elegant lace and embroidered detail. Choose a stylish yet affordable outfit for your Mardi Gras event from our huge selection of tuxedos.

We can also help you to accessorize. Since it’s such a fun and stylish event, you can definitely dress up your look with some mardi gras themed cufflinks & studs. That’s why you have everything you need when you shop with us. Our colored accessories include gold, silver and black, to ensure you get what you need.

When it comes to choosing Mardi Gras costumes, look no further than Buy4LessTuxedo. We stock a range of great outfits that are ideal for your Mardi Gras planning. Our helpful team members will guide you through the options, making sure you get the perfect outfit to look your absolute best.