Dazzling parades, colorful costumes and masks, and loads of beads: these are just a few of the things that attract more than one million visitors to Mardi Gras in the Big Easy each year.

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Mardi Gras Mask and Beads

Some might compare it to Carnival in Rio, but the comparison still falls short because Rio doesn’t have beignets, chicory coffee, or authentic Creole cuisine that New Orleans boasts. The Big Easy has a lot to offer travelers any time of the year, but there is something about the revelry of Mardi Gras that’s impossible to top.

While Mardi Gras 2015 officially falls on February 17, 2015, parades begin on February 6th. Many people like to head to the Mardi Gras on February 13th (and remain until February 17th) for an extended weekend of fun.

What’s the best way to arrive at the biggest party of the year? A private jet charter to Mardi Gras is the perfect way for you and a few of your favorite friends.

Private Jet Charters to New Orleans

There are many benefits to consider when deciding to go the route of private aviation to New Orleans. Charter jet scheduling is flexible rather than fixed. This means you can make adjustments according to your needs. For instance, if you’re having too much fun and want to stay another day or simply want to add a few hours to your itinerary, it’s much easier to manage with private jet charter services than with a traditional airline.

Additionally, private jet charters offer privacy, which is not at all possible on standard airline flights. You book the flight and you decide who comes with you. You can bring a few of your closest friends or choose to go solo – the choice is yours. Location is rarely a problem either – especially when flying into New Orleans because there are two local airports that can accommodate private charter jets.

New Orleans Airports

There are two airports that serve the Greater New Orleans (GNO) area: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, located in Kenner, and Lakefront Airport, located on the banks of Lake Pontchartrain. Lakefront Airport is a smaller regional airport, but landing there will put you much closer to the action in the French Quarter than landing at Louis Armstrong.

Getting Around New Orleans During Mardi Gras

New Orleans can be a tricky city to get around on ordinary days. During Mardi Gras, though, many streets are shut down to accommodate parade routes. Street closings combined with an influx of travelers and already scarce parking, make driving difficult.

An ideal option is to book a hotel on the parade route with onsite parking. You may also choose to use a car service so you don’t have to worry about driving or parking. You might want to consider using city busses and trolleys to navigate your way around town during the parades. Many people choose the last option during Mardi Gras as it reduces concerns over driving after the party is over.

Things to Do in New Orleans

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Jackson Square

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The French Quarter

Even during Mardi Gras, life is not a constant parade in New Orleans. The good news is that there are plenty of things to do to keep you occupied during your stay, including:

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Museums (The National World War II Museum, Confederate Museum, New Orleans Pharmacy Museum)
The Edgar Degas House
St. Louis Cathedral
Riverboat Cruises
Longue Vue House and Gardens
Amistad Research Center
Street Performers
City Park
Audubon Zoo
Voodoo Shops
Professional Sports (NFL, NBA, Arena Football, AAA Baseball, and Semi-Pro Soccer)
Art Galleries
Swamp Tours
Concerts
And more!
Of course, there’s also abundant New Orleans classic food offerings, such as poboys, jambalaya, and gumbo, jazz and blues music galore, in addition to golfing and world class shopping. There are also plenty of nightclubs, pubs, and bars to frequent as well as Harrah’s Casino to liven things up after the parades are over for the day.

Mardi Gras Resources

Make the most of your Mardi Gras fun by booking your private jet charter to the Mardi Gras today. Then, enlist the aid of the resources below to help you get around the city, find the parades, buy beads, get a good night’s sleep, and grab a bite to eat without missing a beat.

Parade Information

Routes, Dates, and Times

Family Gras Information

Mardi Gras Hotels

Parade Route Hotels

French Quarter Hotels

New Orleans News

The Times-Picayune

WDSU

Mardi Gras is a fun experience you can tailor to suit your tastes. Whether you want a family-friendly event or the party-central atmosphere, book your private jet charter to New Orleans with Presidential Aviation today to make sure you’re on the guest list for the hottest party going!