New Orleans Mardi Gras World Behind-the-Scenes Tour

The New Orleans Mardi Gras World offers a captivating behind-the-scenes tour that immerses visitors in the vibrant artistry and rich history of the city’s iconic celebration. Guests explore workshops where skilled artists meticulously craft the elaborate floats, witnessing the creative process from sketching to sculpting and painting. Beyond the floats, the tour unveils the cultural significance of Mardi Gras, inviting guests to experience the traditions firsthand. With the opportunity to don colorful costumes and indulge in the iconic King Cake, this interactive tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the spirit of New Orleans’ most celebrated event.

Good To Know

• Mardi Gras World tour offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the vibrant artistry and craftsmanship behind creating elaborate Mardi Gras parade floats.
• Visitors can explore the workshops where artists sketch, sculpt, paint, and assemble the intricate details, larger-than-life figures, and bold colors that define the floats.
• The tour highlights the rich cultural traditions and creativity that have made New Orleans’ Mardi Gras celebration one of the most iconic annual events.
• Guests can try on colorful costumes, headdresses, and masks, and pose in front of the towering parade floats, capturing the spirit of Mardi Gras.
• The tour includes the opportunity to sample a slice of traditional King Cake, a circular, cinnamon-laced dessert decorated in Mardi Gras colors with a hidden plastic baby figurine.

Exploring the Artistry of Mardi Gras Floats

As visitors embark on the Mardi Gras World tour, they’re immersed in the vibrant artistry and craftsmanship behind the iconic Mardi Gras floats.

Guided by experts, guests explore the workshops where skilled artists and designers bring these elaborate creations to life. From sketches to sculpting, painting, and assembly, the tour unveils the meticulous process of float construction.

Visitors marvel at the intricate details, larger-than-life figures, and bold colors that define the Mardi Gras aesthetic. The experience offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural traditions and creativity that make New Orleans’ carnival celebration so captivating.

Uncovering the History and Significance of Mardi Gras

During the tour, the guide delves into the rich history and cultural significance of Mardi Gras. Guests learn how the festival originated as a Catholic celebration, with roots tracing back to medieval Europe.

The guide explains the symbolic meaning behind the traditional colors of purple, green, and gold, and the importance of the King Cake, a pastry representing the biblical Epiphany.

Travelers also discover how Mardi Gras has evolved over the centuries, becoming New Orleans’ most iconic annual event, drawing millions of revelers from around the world to experience its unique blend of pageantry, music, and revelry.

Dressing up and Posing With Costumes and Floats

One of the highlights of the Mardi Gras World tour is the opportunity for guests to dress up in vibrant costumes and pose in front of the larger-than-life parade floats.

Visitors can:

• Try on elaborate headdresses, masks, and sequined outfits that capture the spirit of Mardi Gras.
• Strike a pose in front of the towering, meticulously crafted floats, which are works of art in their own right.
• Snap photos to commemorate the experience and bring home a piece of the Mardi Gras magic.

This interactive element allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the Mardi Gras experience.

Indulging in the Tradition of King Cake

Visitors to Mardi Gras World are treated to a taste of the traditional King Cake, a beloved Carnival staple.

This circular, cinnamon-laced cake is decorated in the famous Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold. Guests get to sample a slice and learn about the history and significance of this festive dessert.

The King Cake tradition is believed to date back to the 12th century in France. Hiding a small plastic baby figurine inside the cake symbolizes good luck and prosperity for the person who finds it.

Savoring this delightful treat is a highlight of the Mardi Gras World tour experience.

Experiencing the Largest Cultural Celebration in the U.S

The Mardi Gras World tour offers guests the chance to enjoy the vibrant culture and traditions of the largest cultural celebration in the United States.

Guests can:

• Learn about the history and significance of Mardi Gras from expert guides
• Explore the artistry and craftsmanship behind the iconic Mardi Gras floats
• Pose in front of the floats and try on elaborate costumes to fully embrace the festive spirit

Through this interactive experience, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and captivating spectacle that makes Mardi Gras one of the most renowned celebrations in the world.

Navigating the Tour Logistics With Ease

To make the most of the Mardi Gras World tour, visitors can take advantage of the convenient shuttle service that operates every half hour from 20 downtown New Orleans locations.

The meeting point is at Mardi Gras World, 1380 Port of New Orleans Pl, ensuring a hassle-free start to the experience.

With the last admission at 4:30 PM and a maximum of 9 travelers per tour, guests can expect an intimate and personalized experience.

The tour doesn’t operate on major holidays, allowing for smooth scheduling.

Reviewing the Visitor Experience and Feedback

Positive reviews highlight the fun and informative nature of the Mardi Gras World tour guides, as well as the opportunity for guests to engage with the artistry and craftsmanship behind the iconic Mardi Gras floats.

Some guests, however, noted issues with the shuttle service and logistics.

• Visitors appreciated the interactive elements, such as trying on costumes and sampling traditional King Cake.

• A few reviewers mentioned concerns about the shuttle operations and overall organization of the experience.

Accessibility and Cancellation Policy

Wheelchair-accessible tours are available at Mardi Gras World, and strollers and service animals are permitted. Guests can also take advantage of the flexible cancellation policy, with free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience.

Accessibility	Additional Information
Wheelchair Accessible	Free Cancellation
Stroller Allowed	24-Hour Cancellation Policy
Service Animals Permitted	Confirmation Received at Booking
Wheelchair-Accessible Surfaces

The tour does not operate on major holidays, such as Mardi Gras Day, Christmas Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Easter. Guests are advised to check the schedule and plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Based on the information provided, guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour experience includes sampling traditional King Cake, but other outside food and beverages are not permitted.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and video recording are generally allowed during the tour. However, guests should check with the tour operator beforehand, as some restrictions may apply to protect the intellectual property of the float designs.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions or requirements for the tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate in the experience. The tour is suitable for families and groups of all ages.

Can I Leave the Tour and Re-Enter at a Later Time?

No, guests cannot leave the tour and re-enter at a later time. The tour operates on a set schedule, and participants are expected to remain with the group for the full 90-minute duration.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is offered in English, but the availability of other languages may vary. Guests should check with the tour operator for the latest language options when booking their tour.

The Sum Up

The New Orleans Mardi Gras World Behind-the-Scenes Tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the vibrant artistry and rich history behind the city’s iconic festival. Visitors can witness the intricate float-making process, dress up in colorful costumes, and indulge in traditional King Cake, creating lasting memories of this quintessential New Orleans celebration. The tour’s accessibility and ease of navigation make it a must-visit for anyone seeking to explore the essence of Mardi Gras.