The City of Gulf Shores is preparing for one of its most anticipated community traditions with the 47th Annual Mardi Gras Parade. City officials announced that the 2026 celebration will return to its familiar route along Highway 59. Organizers said the goal this year is to encourage more residents, groups, and families to join the fun. As one of the city’s signature events, the parade promises to continue Gulf Shores’ reputation for festive, family-friendly celebrations.

The Mardi Gras Parade is scheduled for Fat Tuesday, February 17, 2026, and will begin rolling at 10 a.m. The route will start at Clubhouse Drive and travel south along Highway 59, ending near the intersection at Highway 182/Beach Boulevard. City officials expect a strong turnout of spectators and participants along the lively parade route.

“Mayor Craft and our City Council recognize how deeply the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade is woven into the fabric of our community,” said Grant Brown, Director of Recreation & Cultural Affairs. Brown said the city’s efforts are focused on making this year’s celebration “our biggest and most inclusive yet.”

To help meet that goal, the city announced a reduced entry fee of $25 per unit. Officials said the lower cost is designed to make it easier for more krewes, local organizations, and families to participate. They also encouraged a wider variety of floats and creative units to join the lineup.

The city has updated its insurance requirements to simplify participation. Parade groups may either provide proof of vehicular liability insurance or add the City of Gulf Shores as an additional insured to their existing policy. These adjustments, the city said, should make it easier for newcomers and returning participants to join the event.

Applications to enter the parade, along with full rules and guidelines, are now available online at www.gulfshoresal.gov/mardigras. The city is encouraging groups to submit applications early, ahead of the February 6, 2026, deadline, to ensure a smooth and well-organized event.

Residents and visitors seeking more details can reach the Special Events Division at 251-968-1171. Updates on the parade and other city events will also be shared on the city’s official website (linked above), where visitors can sign up for event alerts.