Mardi Gras at The Wharf brings all the fanfare of the New Orleans celebration right to your doorstep. A few days before Fat Tuesday on Saturday, March 2nd, District Pier and Wharf Street play host to a colorful parade, live bands, and more in honor of the day.

Grab a good spot along Wharf Street to watch the splashy floats slide by, starting with one bearing players from the Washington Nationals. Other floats will feature local entrepreneurs who own restaurants and retail shops. Mixed in with the floats, a marching band, stilt walkers, and dancers keep the energy high. After the parade, peruse the shops nearby to nab special deals or even pick up your own King Cake. Then head back outside at 5:45 p.m. to see the flashy fireworks finale.