The time is almost upon us for residents of Louisiana to take to the streets in celebration of Mardi Gras, an iconic Carnival celebration ushering in the beginning of the Lent season. Mardi Gras is a time for celebration; however, laws still apply during this time of joy.
Our team at Laborde Earles can help you review important laws to know ahead of Mardi Gras. These regulations can help you have a safe and successful Carnival. Even following all the laws, we know accidents can happen.
If you are in an accident during the celebrations, you can contact aMardi Gras injury lawyer from our team. Find out more by calling or completing our online contact form.
You Cannot Interfere with the Parade
Individuals following the parade route along Bourbon Street and throughout the rest of New Orleans must adhere to all local regulations. You may end up arrested if you attempt to:
- Get in the way of a band
- Hang on a float
- March along to join the parade
- Act aggressively to people in the parade
- Jump over a barricade
In addition to risking arrest, these actions could result in serious injuries. You may follow a moving float briefly, but running into the street can have significant repercussions.
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The Parade Does Not Allow Nudity
Many people associate parade days in New Orleans with public nudity. Police officers in some areas of the city look the other way for flashing, especially around Bourbon Street. Still, in most areas, you can face legal consequences for any form of public nudity.
Many people bring their children to significant parades throughout the city, so it is essential to follow this law.
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The City Does Not Allow Glass Containers
New Orleans bans glass containers during parades during Mardi Gras. The city uses this ban to prevent potential dangers as people discard drinking containers along Napoleon Avenue, Canal Street, and other roads along parade routes.
Falling or stepping onto a discarded glass container due to heavy traffic during day or night parades could leave you with a severe injury, requiring a trip to an aid station or even forcing you to leave the parade to seek care at a medical facility.
A personal injury lawyer in New Orleans can help after an accident.
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Review the Parking Laws in New Orleans
Parade elements need lots of space, and the police throughout New Orleans issue harsh parking violations for people who leave their vehicles in restricted areas. You must keep your vehicle off St. Charles and Napoleon Avenue before and during parades.
The police may fine you and have your vehicle towed for improper placement. Additionally, make sure that you avoid:
- Double-parking
- Parking in driveways
- Parking in front of hydrants
- Parking close to curb corners
- Parking too far away from a curb
The police set up barricades to keep vehicular traffic out of the French Quarter during Mardi Gras weekend. You may only enter the area with a vehicle if you have a special parking pass from your hotel or are a resident.
Parking restrictions can make it difficult to reach the parade route unless you plan carefully. You can face intermittent street closures. We recommend considering alternative transportation options. Walking or biking represent great choices if feasible for you.
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Public Urination Breaks the Law
Public urination during Mardi Gras breaks the law in New Orleans. You can face severe consequences for urinating in the trees along parade routes or any other public areas. You can find some public restrooms along the routes of day parades, especially near Lafayette Square.
Some businesses offer bathroom passes you can purchase. The city does not allow private portable restrooms on public property, however. Public safety officials will act quickly if they spot anyone using the bathroom in public, including in parking lots.
Regulations for Your Spot During the Parades
Enjoying the parade along Canal Street or any other roads in New Orleans requires you to adhere to specific regulations. Make sure that you:
- Store your coolers or backpacks at least six feet from the curb
- Resist moving other people’s things
- Avoid trying to save spots
You cannot rope off territory to enjoy the parade if you’re in a public right of way. We understand the excitement of preparing to see parade floats down Bienville Street and other areas, but the city frowns on staking out spots with sofas, rope, trash cans, and other objects.
You can check parade schedules and arrive at your destination early to make sure you have the spot you want. Mutual respect between parade attendees can make the event fun and safe for everyone.
What Pieces of Parade Etiquette Should You Keep in Mind?
We recommend you review expected parade etiquette before joining the crowd on Canal Street. Going against etiquette may not lead to an arrest, but it can lead to friction with other parade-goers. Make sure that you:
- Avoid grabbing beads off the ground or street
- Avoid getting in the way of another parade-goer’s catch
- Wear all the beads you catch
Mardi Gras in New Orleans leads to one of the biggest parades in the country. Have fun and enjoy your time on Canal Street, Bienville Street, or wherever else you find yourself.
Can You Dress Up for the Parade?
Everyone attending Mardi Gras is encouraged to dress up and get into the spirit of the parade. Wear your glitteriest outfit and join in the celebrations!
You Can Review Additional Mardi Gras Regulations
We’ve discussed many of the essential rules to follow at Mardi Gras. The French Quarter offers more information on the rules of Mardi Gras and some helpful safety tips.
We recommend that you review resources about transportation and secure a map of restroom locations before the parade for best results. Following all safety tips can help you stay safe during your Mardi Gras celebration.
Go Over Important Laws to Follow at Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is a timeless celebration that is part of what makes Louisiana such a remarkable community. The key to a memorable and successful Mardi Gras is to follow local laws and directions from local officials.
Going over important laws to know ahead of Mardi Gras can help you feel more comfortable. You can also contact our team at Laborde Earles if an accident occurs during the parade. Call or fill out our online contact form to discuss legal options to get compensation in this case.
