Thousands of parade goers will be in Downtown Biloxi for the annual Second Liners Mardi Gras Parade, Krewe of Neptune Mardi Gras Parade, and the Gulf Coast Carnival Association Parade. As city crews finish their preparations, the Biloxi Police Department asks parade-goers to keep safety in mind when making their plans.
“Our role is to make sure everyone has a safe time,” Biloxi Police Chief Chris De Back said, “and one of the ways to do that is to create a plan. We want to help visitors, residents, and business owners enjoy themselves in our city, in a safe manner.”
Before the parade
— Carpool and anticipate traffic delays. Appoint a designated driver. Obey the commands of officers at intersections. Be aware that many streets will be closed and traffic will be rerouted in downtown Biloxi.
— Park only in legal parking spaces. Make sure that your parked vehicle provides ample room for passing vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Keep in mind that fire trucks and other emergency vehicles require wide berths for maneuvering streets in the older, downtown section of Biloxi.
— Do not park close to the railroad tracks. In the past, trains have had to be halted and vehicles towed because motorists had parked too close to the train tracks.
— Do not park in the Biloxi City Cemetery north or south of the railroad tracks. No parking is allowed there.
During the parade
— Wear comfortable clothing with possible weather changes in mind. Don’t wear loose-fitting or flashy jewelry.
— It is unlawful to cross police barricades, which line most areas of the parade route. Follow any instructions police give you. Officers from Biloxi as well as from neighboring cities and jurisdictions, will be posted along the parade route.
— Remember, it is unlawful for minors — anyone under 21 years of age — to consume alcoholic beverages.
— Leave your animals at home, unless they are registered entrants in the parades. It is unlawful to bring reptiles or other animals to parades. Loud noises and crowded streets put undue stress on animals.
— Do not bring glass containers to the parade. Use plastic instead.
— Portable restrooms have been positioned along the route, so plan to use those instead of the ones at businesses. Also, you can find medical assistance at locations along the route. In the event of lost children, contact the nearest police officer. Remember what your child was wearing and take a photo of them when you arrive.
After the parade
— Do not attempt to operate a vehicle if you are under the influence of alcohol.
— Follow the directions of officers posted along the routes. Many streets will still be closed and traffic may still be rerouted immediately after the parade.
— Expect traffic delays and heavy traffic immediately after the parade.
— Drive defensively and courteously.
Mardi Gras traffic plan
The city employs a number of traffic plans for special events to ensure traffic does not impede response times for emergency vehicles and that traffic moves safely. The traffic plan is nothing new to longtime paradegoers. In addition to traffic moving safely, police are asking everyone to be safe before, during, and after the parades.
“The bottom line is common courtesy and respect for others,” said Police Chief Chris De Back. “Be careful where you park, don’t drink and drive, and, by all means, obey police officers when you encounter them directing traffic.”
Video: Biloxi Police Chief Chris De Back advises on Mardi Gras safety
See the 2026 Mardi Gras traffic plan
See parade dates and routes
