Looking for things to do in Riverside this weekend? Castle Park Riverside is bringing the fun, festive energy of New Orleans straight to Riverside with a family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration!
On Saturdays and Sundays, Feb 7 – Mar 1, 1 PM – 5 PM, the park comes alive with parades, music, dancing, face painting, and sweet treats. Included with ride park admission and free for annual passholders, this event is perfect for kids ages 3–15 and families ready to celebrate in style. Learn more about the 2026 Mardi Gras Celebration here >
🎷 Hourly Mini Parades & Second Line Fun
Step into the streets of the French Quarter! Every hour, our Second Line parades march through the park with live brass music and plenty of beads to toss. Dance, twirl, and join in the fun. It’s a kid-friendly Mardi Gras celebration everyone can enjoy!
🎨 Face Painting, Dance Performers & Photo Ops
Bring the festival spirit to life with face painters ready to add flair for kids and teens. Catch high-energy dance performers throughout the park and explore a Bourbon Street-inspired activation connecting the Café, Gift Shop, and Carousel, filled with festive décor and photo-worthy moments.
🍰 Festive Treats
No Mardi Gras is complete without a little indulgence! Enjoy Mardi Gras funnel cakes and mini chocolate & caramel beignets while you take in the parades, music, and entertainment inspired by New Orleans, right here in Riverside.
🎧 Live DJ & Entertainment
From live DJ beats to brass bands and parade performances, Castle Park will be buzzing with family-friendly energy, perfect for dancing, singing, and making memories with your whole crew.
📅 Plan Your Mardi Gras Weekend
Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your celebration:
Face Painting
- Location: Café Plaza
- Time: 1 PM – 5 PM
DJ Entertainment
- Location: Merry Go Round
- Time: 1 PM – 2:30 PM & 3 PM – 5:30 PM
Mardi Gras Second Line Parade – Join Us!
- Location: Merry Go Round
- Times: 1:30 PM; 2:30 PM; 3:30 PM; 4:30 PM
Mardi Gras Performers & Duke Bead Toss!
- Location: Merry Go Round
- Times: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM; 3 PM – 4 PM; 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive early, map out your day, and bring your krewe. You won’t want to miss a single moment of the fun! Dress in purple, green, and gold for extra flair in photos and fully embrace the French Quarter experience.
🎟️ Grab your annual pass to enjoy Mardi Gras and all of Castle Park’s seasonal events. Keep the celebration going all year long!
