I have to admit I was a little apprehensive about bringing my family to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, LA.

All my fears were put to rest after we attended our first night parade, Endymion. We sat in the grandstands where there were tons of families, beads and fun. It was a great introduction and made me realize Mardi Gras was not what I expected.

The next day I really got a taste of “Family Gras” when we spent the day tailgating on St. Charles. This is where families camp out and spend the day eating, watching the parades, playing football and over all having a great time. We also experienced the ladders and how apparent this part of Mardi Gras was all about the kids.

Finally on our last day (Lundi Gras), we experienced the Orpheus parade in a whole new way from a balcony on St. Charles. Thanks to Kevin Kelly from Houmas House.

Whether from a grandstand, on the ground or from a balcony, each of our Mardi Gras experiences were amazing and totally family-friendly.

Not once during our 3 day adventure did I see anything inappropriate, and I’m being absolutely honest and not sugar coating any part of the trip. I also felt completely safe walking the streets of New Orleans. Many props to the New Orleans police department for being active and present at every corner of the event…we didn’t even see a single altercation.

We knew that most of the debauchery that is portrayed at Mardi Gras is pretty much secluded to Bourbon Street. Knowing this we simply stayed away and had no less of a good time because of it. It’s also important to know when to leave, as where not to go. We headed back to the hotel as soon as the parades were over, about 10pm.  Common sense really plays a big role when bringing children to an event such as this.

For us, Mardi Gras was about spending time together as a family, enjoying great food, fabulous company and just experiencing first hand the magic and excitement of the parades, floats, beads, masks and other festival treats.

I’m so confident that Mardi Gras can be a family-friendly experience that we are already planning a trip back next year.

I encourage all families to see it for themselves at least once. It’s truly an experience you will never forget!