Mardi Gras is a time of partying that is marked by colorful parades with floats, horses, and music.
It is also a tradition to throw beads and doubloons to people watching the parades.
Each year, this vibrant event attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the colorful parades, lively music, and delicious food that are all hallmarks of Mardi Gras.
If you’re planning to join in the festivities this year, you’re in for a treat!
In this post, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about the Fairhope Mardi Gras 2023 celebration, including dates, parade schedules, and tips for making the most of your experience.
So let’s get started!
Fairhope Mardi Gras 2023 Schedule
The Fairhope Mardi Gras parade schedule has been officially released.
Here is the combined parade schedule for Fairhope and the surrounding areas.
Friday, February 10
6:45 p.m. – Apollo’s Mystic Ladies (Daphne)
Saturday, February 11
6:30 p.m. – Knights of Ecor Rouge (Fairhope)
Friday, February 17
6:45 p.m. – Maids of Jubilee (Fairhope)
Saturday, February 18
2 p.m – Krewe Of Mullet Mates (Mullet Point, Fairhope)
6 p.m. – Mystics of Pleasure (Orange Beach)
6:45 p.m. – The Shadow Barons (Daphne)
Sunday, February 19 (Joe Cain Day)
1 p.m. – Fort Morgan Parading Society (Fort Morgan)
2:29 p.m. – Loyal Order of the Fire Truck (Daphne)
6 p.m. – Krewe du Cirque (OWA, Foley)
Monday, February 20 (Lundi Gras)
6:45 p.m. – Order of Mystic Magnolias (Fairhope)
Tuesday, February 21 (Fat Tuesday)
10 a.m. – Gulf Shores Parade (Gulf Shores)
2 p.m. – Orange Beach Parade (Orange Beach)
We pulled our Fairhope parade schedule from the city website.
Mardi Gras Parades In Fairhope
While the origins of Mardi Gras parades can be traced back to Mobile, Alabama, the city of Fairhope has embraced the celebration with its own unique style.
Mardi Gras is an important part of the culture in Fairhope, and the parades are a beloved tradition that brings the community together.
Schools in Fairhope even take a week off in honor of the festivities, which are known for their family-friendly atmosphere and enjoyable events for people of all ages.
During the parades, spectators can catch beads and other treats thrown from the floats, and there are also performances by local high school bands and dance teams.
Related Reading: Top Bed & Breakfast In Fairhope – Book These This Mardi Gras.
Fairhope Mardi Gras – FAQs
Where Do Fairhope Parades Happen?
The parade route may change sometime, but the usual takes place downtown Fairhope during the afternoon.
You can catch them at Mullet Point, North Church Street, Fairhope Avenue, De La Mare Avenue, and South Section Street.
You can also watch Orange Beach, Baldwin County, Gulf Shores, and Mobile Bay parades.
Who Participates in the Mardi Gras Parade at Fairhope?
Three groups participate in the Fairhope Mardi Gras parade: Knights of Ecor Rouge, Maids of Jubilee, and Order of Mystic Magnolias.
Each organization prepares a parade and ball and shows up in its best costumes, depending on the theme.
Knights of Ecor Rouge
KOER is the first men’s organization from the Eastern show to be a Mardi Gras krewe.
They are a crowd favorite for every downtown parade and participate during the two Saturdays before Mardi Gras.
Maids of Jubilee
Maids of Jubilee has been a standard in parades and balls since they participated in 1985 with their fun theme.
You can watch their parade the Friday before Fat Tuesday and expect an exciting ball, costume, props, and procession.
Order of Mystic Magnolias
OOMM features over 300 members who join the festival with their floats designed by reputable artists.
Their grand finale happens on Lundi Gras, a Monday before Mardi Gras, so you can expect a back-to-back festive afternoon.
Once the parade ends, these organizations prepare a ball during the evening with music and food.
What is Mystic Mutts of Revelry?
Mystic Mutts of Revelry is a favorite crowd sight as different dogs dress up in carts for the walking parade.
Depending on the motif, hundreds of pups wear costumes and ride wagons to kick off the start of the carnival season.
You can catch this parade on the Saturday before Mardi Gras and the KOER parade.
Where Are the Best Places to Eat During Mardi Gras in Fairhope, AL?
Fairhope is famous for having delicious restaurants that serve local dishes and Mardi Gras specialties.
However, customers will surge during the parade, so you may want to plan your meal.
I have put together a list of Fairhope restaurants that will guarantee mouthwatering and filling dishes.
Where to Park During Fairhope Mardi Gras Parades?
Most roads are on lockdown at least an hour or two before the parade starts, so you need to find a parking lot before that.
There are various public parking spots in downtown Fairhope, but it is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
You can find one near the Hampton Inn, Julwin’s Restaurant, or Fairhoper’s Community Park, but arrive early.
The Bottom Line
Fairhope Mardi Gras is shaping up to be an exciting and memorable celebration.
With its vibrant parades, lively music, and delicious food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor from out of town, we hope that you’ll join in the festivities and experience the magic of Mardi Gras in Fairhope.
Remember to plan ahead and stay safe during the celebration, and we’ll see you at the parades!
Related Reading: Top Fairhope Alabama Restaurants – Get The Complete List Here.
