Mardi Gras Plans Shift For A Safer Celebration Next Year

(KMDL-FM) Here it is, the day after Tax Day, and I swear I have heard the phrase "Mardi Gras comes early next year" about twenty times already this month. Granted, Mardi Gras may still be months away as far as the parades and revelry are concerned, but these are the months when Mardi Gras plans are made.

READ MORE: New Law Targets "Aggressive Throwers" At Mardi Gras Parades

And right now, behind closed doors, city planners and event planners across South Louisiana are contemplating how they are going to squeeze all of the revelry of Mardi Gras into a much smaller window. In order to do that, changes will have to be made, and one Louisiana community is already out in front of "early Mardi Gras".

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Mardi Gras is Early in 2027 - What is The Date of Mardi Gras Next Year?

You know the folks who say Mardi Gras comes early next year aren't wrong. The earliest "Fat Tuesday" can happen is February 3rd. Of course, for that to happen, Easter would have to be on March 22. The last time that timing scenario happened was in 1818. It won't happen again for a few more years, namely 2085.

Mardi Gras, if you're unaware how the math works is always 47 days before Easter. In 2027, Easter Sunday will be on March 28. If you count backwards for 47 days, you should land on February 9th, 2027. That is the date we will celebrate Mardi Gras next year.

The Uninvited Guest That Every Mardi Gras Celebration Has to Prepare For

We would be remiss if we didn't bring up the reason why so many communities have revamped or are revamping Mardi Gras plans for next year already. In addition to fun at Mardi Gras, what is the other activity that seems to show up along the parade route and at parties? The very sobering and solemn answer to that question is violence.

Last year, city officials in Lake Charles and Deputies in Calcasieu Parish worked two shootings along the parade route. During a news conference yesterday, officials for both the city and parish announced that as part of the violence abatement plan, there would be major schedule changes for Lake Charles and Calcasieu events next year.

READ MORE: Two Shot in Lafayette Mardi Gras Violence

The basic premise of the changes appears to be single-minded. Make sure that all Mardi Gras events happen during daylight hours. Officials believe that without the cover of darkness to hide wrongdoing, cooler and calmer heads will prevail.

I guess it could be said that if events happen earlier in the day, then those who choose to imbibe with adult beverages won't have as much time to become "toxic" as the day wears on.

What Are the Schedule Changes for Mardi Gras in Lake Charles in 2027?

So here, in a nutshell, is when next year's Mardi Gras Events in Lake Charles/Calcasieu Parish will occur.

** Second Line Stroll - 11 a.m.
** Jeeps on Parade - Noon
** Motor Gras Parade - 1 p.m.
** Krewe of Krewes - 3 p.m.

Authorities don't believe the schedule changes will affect anyone's ability to enjoy Mardi Gras festivities. Businesses along and near the parade route seem to be receptive to the schedule change as well.

Since we know you'll sleep at least once between now and Mardi Gras, we will remind you about these schedule changes as we move much closer to Mardi Gras 2027. In the meantime, what are you doing with all of those beads you got at Mardi Gras this year?

Don't you break any of our commandments, you hear?