LAFAYETTE PARISH, LA — In response to severe weather forecasts, Le Festival de Mardi Gras has announced the cancellation of its Tuesday carnival, marking a major adjustment to the region’s Mardi Gras festivities. The decision comes as thunderstorms and high winds are predicted to impact Acadiana, prompting festival organizers to prioritize the safety of attendees and participants.
The weather conditions, with winds potentially reaching 40-50 miles per hour, raised concerns over flying debris and other hazards. Chris Foreman, director of Le Festival de Mardi Gras, explained that preparations began on Monday night, with organizers starting to dismantle props at Cajun Field in anticipation of the storm. “With winds possibly reaching 40-50 miles per hour, there are many things that could start flying around. From what I understand, a lot of other events are doing the same thing—it’s all about safety,” Foreman said.
Despite the cancellation of the Tuesday carnival, the festivities will continue Monday night, with live performances scheduled by Ory Veillon Music, Coteau Grove, and Wayne Toups. “You get to party Lundi Gras and Mardi Gras on the same day,” Foreman added, maintaining the celebratory spirit ahead of the storm.
Changes to Tuesday’s schedule have also been made to accommodate the weather. The Lafayette Police Department, in consultation with the National Weather Service, confirmed that road closures will begin at 8:30 a.m., with the King Gabriel Parade now set to start at 9 a.m., an hour earlier than initially planned. The Festival Mardi Gras Association Parade will follow immediately after. However, the Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association announced the cancellation of the Independent Parade, citing concerns over the weather.
The Lafayette Police Department (LPD) issued safety advisories for paradegoers, urging spectators to refrain from erecting tents or canopies, as high winds pose a risk of blowing them over. They also advised caution with lightweight objects such as signs, banners, and flags that could become hazardous in the gusty conditions.
Sgt. Robin Green, spokesperson for the LPD, emphasized the importance of staying vigilant throughout the day. “We sat in on a Zoom call with the National Weather Service, and they advised us about the high winds expected to start as early as 6:30 a.m. These winds are forecast to be around 50 miles per hour and will intensify throughout the day,” Green said.
While the weather may be changing the typical Mardi Gras experience in Lafayette Parish, organizers and law enforcement are working together to ensure that the remaining festivities can take place in the safest possible manner. Residents are encouraged to enjoy the early Fat Tuesday parades while staying mindful of the evolving weather conditions.