Parades with kids?

Question

Hello. We will be in NOLA Friday and we're thinking of seeing a parade. That day is Krewe of Cork, Krewe of Excalibur, Krewe of Oshun and Krewe of Cleopatra.

There will be 8 of us (2 adults, 4 seniors, 2 kids-ages 5 and 9).

Are these appropriate for kids? We looked into getting a grandstand, but they are only for Oshun/Cleopatra. Would this be worth it? Okay for kids?

Answer

It sounds like you’re planning a fun family outing to New Orleans during Mardi Gras! Here’s what you can expect from the parades you mentioned and whether they’re appropriate for kids:

Krewe of Cork: This parade is a bit more laid-back and fun, featuring wine and culinary-themed floats, so it’s a great option for adults, but it also tends to be less rowdy than some of the larger parades. It’s family-friendly and appropriate for kids, especially if you’re looking for something a little more relaxed. The parade typically has a festive and playful vibe, so it’s perfect for younger children like your 5 and 9-year-olds. However, the route can get crowded, so it’s worth planning ahead for a good spot.

Krewe of Excalibur: This parade has a more traditional Mardi Gras feel, with colorful floats and a variety of throws, making it a fun spectacle for kids. The Krewe of Excalibur is known for its medieval-themed floats, which can be really exciting for children, and they’ll enjoy catching beads and trinkets thrown from the floats. This parade is definitely kid-friendly, and your children will enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Krewe of Oshun: The Krewe of Oshun is known for its colorful and vibrant floats, and this parade also includes a lot of family-friendly elements. This is a great choice if you want to experience a larger, well-organized parade. As you mentioned, grandstands are available for this parade, which could make it easier for you to see the action without the hassle of a crowded street. The grandstands can be a good idea for kids, as they’ll have a better view of the floats and won’t have to worry about standing in one place for too long. If you’re okay with the cost of grandstand seating, it might be worth it for comfort and convenience, especially with kids and seniors in tow.

Krewe of Cleopatra: The Krewe of Cleopatra parade is another excellent option for families, with a focus on strong female empowerment and beautiful, creative floats. Like Oshun, this parade is large and well-attended, with many colorful throws and plenty of excitement for the kids. The grandstands will likely be less crowded for Cleopatra, so it’s a solid choice for getting a good view without too much stress. Again, if you’re comfortable with the cost, it might be worth it for both the kids and seniors.

Grandstands: Are They Worth It? If you’re planning on getting a grandstand for either the Krewe of Oshun or Krewe of Cleopatra, it can be a great way to ensure a comfortable and clear view of the parade without the chaos of standing on the street. With young kids, having reserved seating can make the experience much more enjoyable, especially since you’ll have a designated spot where you can relax and not worry about missing any of the action. However, if the cost is a concern and you’re okay with standing for the parade, the streets can also be a fun, immersive way to experience Mardi Gras. Just be prepared for larger crowds, especially closer to the parade start time.

General Tips for Mardi Gras with Kids - Make sure to bring some essentials like snacks, sunscreen, and water, as you’ll likely be outside for several hours. - Arrive early to secure a good spot along the route, especially if you’re not using a grandstand. - Be cautious with the throws: Mardi Gras is famous for its beads, but be mindful of how hard some of the throws can be (especially for young kids). - The parades can get loud and busy, so keep an eye on your children at all times. - Wear comfortable shoes, as you may be walking a lot between parades and other events.

In summary, all of these parades are generally kid-friendly, but if you want a more relaxed and easier experience with your children, the grandstands for Oshun and Cleopatra might be a good idea. However, Krewe of Cork and Excalibur also offer fun, less crowded options, so either way, you’ll find plenty to enjoy!

Parades with kids?

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