Mardi Gras World

Introduction

Mardi Gras World sits on the Mississippi riverfront in New Orleans's Warehouse District and is a unique museum revealing the behind-the-scenes craft of the city's famed Carnival season. Operated by Blaine Kern Studios since 1947, the workshop builds floats for Mardi Gras krewes under the guidance of Blaine Kern, known as Mr. Mardi Gras. Visitors can walk through the working float studio, seeing the construction process from chassis framing and papier-mache sculpting to painting and decoration, and try on traditional masks and royal costumes. The warehouse displays floats, giant figures, and themed props used by various krewes over the years, with guided narration on Mardi Gras history, etiquette, and symbolism. Tours end with a slice of traditional King Cake, making this an essential stop for understanding the soul of New Orleans culture.

✨ Highlights

🛈 Practical Info