Carnival season on the lakefront is celebrated each year with one of the University of New Orleans’ most anticipated traditions: the Krewe of UNO Mardi Gras Parade. Rolling through campus on Tuesday, February 10, at 12:30 p.m. the parade brings color, creativity, and community spirit to the shores of Lake Pontchartrain.

The 2026 parade is inviting the campus community to step Under the Big Top for a parade filled with spectacle, energy, and imagination. Like any great circus, UNO shines because of the performers both behind the scenes and in the spotlight—from inspiring faculty and dedicated staff to resilient, creative students. Each plays a vital role in keeping the show going and the Privateer spirit strong.

LeeAnne Sipe, Dean of Students and co-captain of the parade, says, “the Krewe of UNO parade is my favorite campus tradition! In my opinion, it’s the best of us: students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members take a short break to be silly together and celebrate what makes us special. Hands down my favorite day of the year!”

The parade route starts at the Human Performance Center and will travel up Milneburg Road, passing the University Center and concluding at the Homer L. Hitt Alumni and Visitor Center. Following the parade, the celebration continues at the Alumni Center, where attendees can enjoy king cake and community fellowship. There’s no bad place to catch the parade. Spectators are encouraged to line up anywhere along Milneburg Road between the Human Performance Center (HPC) and the Alumni Center.

For more information about campus events and traditions, visit The Krewe of UNO.