Mardi Gras is renowned for its vibrant parades, delectable cuisine, and lively celebrations, and Disney has its own magical way of joining in the festivities. All you need to do is venture over to Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter on Mardi Gras to immerse yourself in the whirlwind of fun.
Pargo Parade
One of the most anticipated events of the day is the Pargo Parade. Each year, Disney’s cast members unleash their creativity, conjuring up spectacular floats that reflect the chosen theme for that year. In 2023, the theme centered around resorts, and the cast members spared no effort in transforming golf carts into whimsical masterpieces. Picture a Boardwalk-themed float adorned with cotton candy or a meticulously crafted replica of the inside of Wilderness Lodge. The parade is a showcase of incredible talent.
As the parade winds its way through Port Orleans Riverside, cast members aboard these enchanting floats gleefully distribute candy and handfuls of colorful beads to the cheering crowd. To add to the magic, Princess Tiana herself leads the parade from a magnificent carriage, graciously waving to everyone along the route.
The parade typically kicks off at around 10 am in Port Orleans Riverside and concludes right around 11 am at the back entrance to the lobby of French Quarter, leaving everyone in awe of the creative brilliance.
There is even a code that you can scan to vote for your favorite float!
Dancing
As the day progresses, the festivities continue with a lively dance party, usually held in the evening around 5 or 6 pm. The French Quarter’s courtyard transforms into a lively and colorful spectacle, where beads fly, laughter echoes, and games are abundant. This spirited dance party promises to entertain the entire family and keep the good times rolling.
Crafts
Just like many other resorts across Disney property, Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter offer exciting craft activities. However, during Mardi Gras, these crafts take on a unique and festive flavor. It’s an opportunity for guests of all ages to engage in creative projects that capture the spirit of this joyous celebration. Whether it’s mask-making, bead decorations, or other Mardi Gras-themed crafts, these activities add an extra layer of fun to your Disney Mardi Gras experience.
Food
Tiana’s culinary delights are legendary, and one treat that truly stands out is her delectable, melt-in-your-mouth beignets. Nestled within the French Quarter lobby, Scat Cat’s is where you can savor these mouthwatering delights. However, a word of advice: be sure to place your order before the parade sweeps through the courtyard, as lines can get quite lengthy after this fun event.
These freshly made beignets are a true taste of New Orleans, and you have the option to have them generously powdered with sugar and even dipped in a luscious chocolate sauce. The result? A warm, sweet treat that embodies the enchanting flavors of New Orleans cuisine, adding a touch of culinary magic to your Mardi Gras.
Transportation
While Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter may not be Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resorts, reaching them is a breeze, thanks to Disney’s well-connected transportation network. If you’re staying at Saratoga Springs, a leisurely boat ride will whisk you directly to your destination right over the bridge heading to Disney Springs. For guests at other DVC resorts, convenient bus transportation is available from the transportation center, or you can opt for a scenic boat ride departing from Disney Springs. Disney’s efficient transportation options ensure that your journey to Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter is as smooth and hassle-free as possible, allowing you to focus on enjoying the Mardi Gras festivities and the delectable beignets that await you.
In the heart of Disney magic, Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter bring the spirit of Mardi Gras to life, offering a memorable and enchanting celebration for guests of all ages. It’s a perfect blend of Disney creativity and Mardi Gras tradition, ensuring you have a truly magical experience.
Written by
Marissa Coffta
Marissa’s lifelong enchantment with Disney magic began in her childhood and has continued to flourish. She is a mom to 3, who frequently embarks on solo or family adventures to Disney World. Currently living out of state, she takes many modes of transportation to experience the wonder of Disney firsthand. Her fervent passion for writing fuels her with the hopes of bringing the world of Disney to life, making the magic a part of her world.
