Grab your krewe and join The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk as they celebrate the return of Mardi Gras with the 35th annual Lundi Gras on the Mississippi. The free, public event will feature an array of festivities at the refurbished Spanish Plaza on Monday, February 28, including the arrival of Rex, King of Carnival.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Rex Organization, and with live music, fireworks, and local food vendors, the event continues to be the premier Lundi Gras celebration in New Orleans.

“After a year without Mardi Gras, we are beyond excited to welcome Rex, King of Carnival and King Zulu, along with Mayor Cantrell, to officially announce Fat Tuesday,” says Frank Quinn, general manager of The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk. “We welcome locals and visitors of all ages to join us on Spanish Plaza for this momentous occasion and celebrate what is uniquely New Orleans.”

Patrons who attend Lundi Gras on the Mississippi will find local food vendors and a lineup of some of New Orleans’ most beloved local musicians scheduled throughout the day.

No ice chests, skateboards, bicycles, pets, or glass are allowed on Spanish Plaza during event. Lundi Gras on the Mississippi

MUSIC SCHEDULE

12:10 p.m. | Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes and the Louisiana Sunspots

2:10 p.m. | Young Pinstripe Brass Band

4:15 p.m. | Cowboy Mouth

6:00 p.m. | Arrival of Rex: King of Carnival

6:20 p.m. | Fireworks display

Historically, Rex and his entourage have arrived in full regalia at the New Orleans riverfront to commence the celebration of Mardi Gras and proclaim his rule over the merriment of the holiday. The annual tradition evolved to establish its own official name, “Lundi Gras,” or “Fat Monday,” in 1987. After several years of arriving by train, the King of Carnival revived the historical tradition of arriving by boat. Upon arrival, Rex will greet visitors who gather at Riverwalk’s Spanish Plaza to watch Mayor LaToya Cantrell, the King of Zulu and other local dignitaries celebrate the ceremonial start to Mardi Gras. Mayor Cantrell will hand over the key to the city to Rex and salute the two monarchs as they give their proclamations for this year’s festivities, followed by an extravagant firework display.

The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk, located at 500 Port of New Orleans Place, will be open from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. on Lundi Gras.