Pensacola Mardi Gras Parade Routes & Information
Mardi Gras in Pensacola is a special time when the city comes to life. From scenes of purple, gold, and green, layers of beads, moon pies, and more, there are many reasons to attend a Mardi Gras Parade. Excitingly, the Pensacola Bay Area boasts three parades - two in downtown Pensacola and one on Pensacola Beach, along with other parades in neighboring cities like Navarre and Milton. Read below for parade information and insider tips to enjoy Mardi Gras in Pensacola!
Downtown Pensacola Parades
Downtown Pensacola boasts two Mardi Gras Parades, the Illuminated Parade on Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. and the Grand Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday at 2 p.m. Fun tip: If you love the Mardi Gras floats, head to Spring street early to get a closer look! The street is closed, but be mindful that floats are being pulled in and out, so be on the lookout. Downtown parades typically last several hours, so pack your patience, get a good spot, and be ready to hurry up and wait. Being earlier in the parade route ensures seeing all the floats the quickest, versus towards the end, where you have to wait for them to make it through.
Kids Viewing Zone
Handicap Amenities & Map
- The handicap viewing area is on the corner of Gregory and the west side of Palafox.
- Handicap parking is available on the corner of Gregory and Palafox, across from the Smart Bank.
- Parking and the viewing area are first come, first served. There will be no bleachers in the viewing area.
- There are handicapped porta potties at this location and the kid's viewing area.
Downtown Road Closure Information
Pedestrians and drivers should follow signage and directions from Law Enforcement Officials.
Friday:
5:30 p.m. – Road closures begin
5:30 p.m. – Vehicles parked on the parade route will be towed.
6:30 p.m. – East and West Main Street close to traffic.
7:30 p.m. – Parade begins.
Immediately after the parade – Roads reopen.
Saturday:
11:00 a.m. – Road closures begin
11:00 a.m. – Vehicles parked on the parade route will be towed.
1:00 p.m. – East and West Main Street close to traffic.
2:00 p.m. – Parade begins.
Immediately after the parade – Roads reopen.
Additional Details:
- Road closures extend from DeVillers Street (west) to Tarragona Street (east).
- Westbound traffic detours north on 9th Avenue to Cervantes.
- Eastbound traffic detours north on DeVillers.
- No parking directly on the parade route (notices posted 3 days in advance).
- Jefferson Street Parking Garage access is available until full or deemed unsafe.
- City Hall parking lot is not available for public parking.
- Law enforcement will evaluate and limit access for safety.
Trolley Info:
There will be a free trolley running from the Racing Village to the Parade from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with stops at:
- Maritime Park
- Zaragossa & Baylen
- Baylen St. Parking Lot
Pensacola Beach Parade
Mardi Gras parade with an island atmosphere! After the parade, parties are everywhere and the biggest is at the Gulfside Pavilion where the revelers wait for the results of the judges and trophies to be awarded. Of course, the music is playing, and partiers are dancing!
