We're bringing New Orleans to DC! In partnership with Events DC, The Wharf celebrates Mardi Gras with a free community-wide extravaganza featuring a lively parade down Wharf Street, a dance party with live music on District Pier, and a special fireworks finale.
View a Map of the Parade Route
3:00pm — Mardi Gras Activities Begin The District Pier Bar opens and begins serving Hurricanes made from Thrasher's Rum.
3:30pm — Parade Begins Enjoy a spirited parade featuring stilt walkers, the Mardi Gras king and queen, and fantastic floats from your favorite Wharf neighborhood partners including Kaliwa, Praline Bakery, Moon Rabbit, The Anthem, Capital Yacht Club, The Goddard School, The Channel, Port of Washington Yacht Club, Capital Yacht Club, Boardwalk Bar & Arcade, Pearl Street Warehouse, So Others Might Eat, Washington Gas, Washington Blade and many more.
The parade will also feature special appearances by Eastern High School Marching Band, Washington Nationals' Racing Presidents, Wizards' G-Wiz, and Batalá Washington.
4:30pm-7:00pm — Dance Party on District Pier The celebration continues on District Pier with a dance party and live music by the Naptown Brass Band.
~6:30pm — Fireworks Salute When the sun sets, look to the sky for our big Mardi Gras fireworks finale! After the fireworks, the band will perform one final set.
Transportation
There are many ways to get to The Wharf that are better than driving and parking. The parking garage at The Wharf will fill up before the event begins. Don't be part of traffic; be part of the solution. Learn more about Getting to The Wharf, including rideshare and taxis, the free Southwest Shuttle and Metro service updates. If you must drive, plan to park at one of the nearby parking garages: bit.ly/3pEABhp.
Compliments of our luxury rideshare partner Alto, please enjoy $15 off 2 rides with code MARDIGRAS. Offer valid for Alto members only 2/18-2/19/23. New users get a free 14-day trial. Download their app at ridealto.com/download.
Other Information
*This event is free and open to the public; no registration is required to view the parade or enjoy the live music and activities. Must be 21+ to consume alcohol.
*No alcohol can be consumed on the parade route. Alcohol can only be consumed on District Pier or at a Wharf restaurant.
*This event will take place rain or shine. Actual event times may vary pending parade progress.
*The parade begins at Blair Alley (near Shake Shack), goes along Wharf Street next to the water, and ends at Parker Row (near Hell's Kitchen).
View Frequently Asked Questions about Mardi Gras at The Wharf