Prepare to be showered with "literally tons" of beads! The Krewe of Thoth (pronounced "Toth") is a beloved Sunday staple of the Mardi Gras season. Known as the "Krewe of the Shut-Ins," Thoth is celebrated for its massive membership and its deep commitment to community service.
The 2026 parade rolls through Uptown on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
đź“… Event Details
- Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026 (The Sunday before Fat Tuesday)
- Time: 12:00 PM
- 2026 Royalty: King Caleb Didriksen and Queen Savannah Bergeron.
- Scale: Over 2,500 riders and 50 floats.
đź“Ť The Unique "Shut-In" Route
Thoth is famous for having the most unique route in Mardi Gras. While most parades stick strictly to the traditional Uptown route, Thoth winds through neighborhood streets specifically to pass by hospitals and care facilities, bringing Carnival to those who cannot leave their rooms.
- Start: State St. & Henry Clay Ave. (Near Children’s Hospital).
- The Neighborhood Loop: Winds through State St., Magazine St., and Nashville Ave.
- The Institutions: The route passes the New Orleans Adolescent Hospital, Children's Hospital, and several nursing homes.
- The Main Stretch: Eventually turns onto St. Charles Ave. at Nashville Ave. and follows the traditional route past Harmony Circle to Canal St.
- End: Tchoupitoulas St. & Poydras St.
✨ What to Expect
- Massive Throws: Thoth is legendary for the sheer volume of beads and trinkets. Because they have over 2,500 riders, the "rain" of beads is nearly constant.
- Signature Floats: Look for the "Royal Barge," which seems to float above the crowd, and the "Palace of Amenhotep."
- A "Day-Parade" Vibe: Thoth is incredibly family-friendly. Since it starts at noon, the atmosphere is sunny, high-energy, and perfect for picnics along the route.
- The "Thoth Walk": Riders are known for being particularly generous and engaging with the crowds, especially near the medical institutions at the start of the route.
đź’ˇ Tips for Attendees
- Magazine St. vs. St. Charles: For a more "local" and slightly less crowded feel, catch Thoth on the Magazine Street portion of the route. For the classic "big parade" energy, head to St. Charles Avenue.
- Sun Protection: Since this is a midday parade that can last several hours, don't forget sunscreen and hats.
- Early Arrival: Sunday is a huge parade day (Thoth is followed by Bacchus in the evening). Many families set up their spots at dawn.
- Bring a Wagon: You will likely catch more beads at Thoth than any other parade. Having a wagon or a very large bag is a pro move.
đź“ś History of Thoth
Founded in 1947, Thoth was organized with a specific mission: to provide a parade for people who were confined to institutions and couldn't attend traditional celebrations. They designed their route to pass by five such locations. While the krewe has grown from a small neighborhood march into a "Super Krewe" giant, they have never abandoned their original path or their dedication to the "shut-ins" of New Orleans.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Uptown New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
