Downtown Pensacola transforms into Mardi Gras central this Saturday, Jan. 3, as Pensacola Mardi Gras hosts its 15th annual Kick-Off Celebration, officially launching the 2026 season presented by the Ice Flyers Foundation.
Blessing of the Krewes and Royal Processional
Ceremonial highlights include the Blessing of the Krewes, led by Father Patrick LaPointe, and the Royal Processional featuring elected officials, civic leaders, clergy, Krewe Royalty, and the 2026 Priscus Royalty from the Krewe of Gatsby Girls—Queen Truli Hartley and Queen Melissa Wright.
- Town Crier Marty Stanovich, joined this year by Mrs. Town Crier Jo Stanovich, will formally proclaim each Krewe and welcome them into the 2026 Mardi Gras Season.
Parade in Reverse Format
Approximately 35 Mardi Gras floats will be staged in a stationary display along Jefferson and Palafox Streets outside Seville Quarter. This “parade in reverse” format allows attendees to stroll the route, interact directly with Krewe members, and experience the floats up close rather than watching them pass by. Each participating float and Krewe will be individually blessed and formally proclaimed into the season.
Evening Schedule and Second Line Processional
The evening begins inside Seville Quarter’s Phineas Phoggs, with doors opening at 5 p.m. A special VIP Reception for invited guests takes place upstairs, with Opening Ceremonies following on the Phineas Phoggs stage after 6:30 p.m.
- As the evening unfolds, Krewe Royalty and local dignitaries will merge into a second line processional led by live brass band music, traveling through the streets to conclude at Artel Gallery at Government and Palafox Streets for the ceremonial cutting of the Community King Cake provided by J’s Bakery & Catering.
Final Celebration Before Construction
This year’s Kick-Off Celebration is the final major public celebration on Palafox Street before the Reimagine Palafox construction project begins Monday, Jan. 5.
- Street closures begin at approximately 3 p.m. Saturday, with full closures by 4 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
For more information, visit pensacolamardigras.com.