“No matter how prepared you think you are… you’re just not.” By now I’m sure you’ve heard that from all of your older friends, you’ve started aimlessly browsing websites for anything as long as it has sequins, and you’ve started wondering: what the hell am I supposed to expect out of Mardi Gras?
Well, it’s your lucky day! Whether you’re a well-seasoned Mardi Pardier, or this is your very first one, I’ve gathered a few of the best tips to make your experience more memorable (literally and figuratively)!
-
Fanny Pack essentials
Fanny packs are making a comeback in a huge way. Not only are they the perfect accessory for carrying your phone while you’re ~partying at the parade~, but it can also hold the necessities you’ll need to survive the madness.
My favorites: power bar. Find a yummy flavor, particularly with protein (but avoid chocolate ones because they’ll melt). These will be a great pick-me-up when you’re out and don’t want to buy Cane’s for the thousandth time.
Chapstick. You’re drinking. You’re singing. It’ll be cold. Thank me later.
Band-aids. No matter how comfortable you think your shoes are, something can always go wrong. Avoid sore feet (the ultimate party foul during Mardi), and stock your fanny pack with these life savers.
-
You do NOT need a complete outfit every day
I know it’s so exciting to buy absolutely ridiculous clothes for Mardi Gras; when can you really wear a fur coat with sequin leggings?! But I promise you, there will be no shortage of clothing and accessories. One of my favorite parts of Mardi Gras my freshman year was the feeling of community amongst my floor in Sharp, when we all popped into each others’ rooms to borrow random stuff. Your neighbors will have awesome stuff you never even thought of, and you’ll avoid going broke!
3. Buy a fun new chaser
You do not want your favorite juice ruined for you during these 5 days of insanity. RIP strawberry lemonade 🙁
4. Have plenty of TUMS
As the days start to blend together, you won’t realize how many meals you’ve had Boot pizza or Cane’s chicken nuggets for, until the heartburn kicks in. Combined with drinking, it can get pretty brutal. Have anti-acid on hand to keep the party going all weekend long.
-
GO TO PARADES
Sure we all love a good frat party, but trust me, the parades are not something to miss. I was pleasantly surprised how much fun I had when I went, and it’s what Mardi Gras is all about after all! Get into the spirit of catching beads, meeting new people, and having a dance party on St. Charles.
Pro tip: the U-Hauls might seem like a good idea, but in all honesty a comfortable Uber ride is always the move. If you do decide to drive in a U-Haul, watch your head on the way in and expect to get reaaaal close with your fellow passengers!
-
Napping is acceptable. Seriously.
For some reason, everyone thinks that Mardi Gras is supposed to be a non-stop spree of drinking, dancing, partying, and eating. Do yourself a favor and take a solid nap! If you expect to make it to Tequila Sunrise (and you definitely should try), go home, get some sleep, and go back out again. There is so much going on that you have no need for FOMO, the fun will still be there when you get back.
With these totally professional tips, I hope you have a fun and safe Mardi Gras!!! Party on Tulane.
About Rachel Wine
Rachel Wine is our Editor in Chief and a lover of all things New Orleans! A few of her favorite things include film photography, traveling, and finding new restaurants to try.
Rachel Wine is our Editor in Chief and a lover of all things New Orleans! A few of her favorite things include film photography, traveling, and finding new restaurants to try.
