NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Riverwalk Outlets announced the return of the 39th Annual Riverwalk Lundi Gras celebration on March 3 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. This Carnival event will showcase performances by local musicians, an array of food and craft vendors, fireworks and more. Admission is free for all attendees! For those looking to elevate their experience, VIP Experience tickets are available for purchase. With VIP Experience tickets, attendees can enjoy complimentary food, beverages and prime front-row access to all entertainment. The festivities will culminate with the arrival of Rex, King of Carnival, and King Zulu at Spanish Plaza. They will be joined on stage by Mayor Cantrell and co-emcees Mark Romig of New Orleans & Company and Aulston Taylor of St. Augustine High School.
“We are excited to continue the cherished tradition of hosting the ceremonial kickoff to Mardi Gras for the 39th year,” said Yvette Gremillion-Watkins, general manager of Riverwalk Outlets. “This event presents a fantastic opportunity for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in a distinctive New Orleans Mardi Gras celebration, all against the beautiful backdrop of the Mississippi River.”
At 6 p.m., Rex, the King of Carnival, will make his grand entrance at the riverfront, officially beginning his reign. The meeting and exchange of greetings between Rex, King Zulu and the Mayor at Spanish Plaza will symbolize unity, setting the stage for the festivities to commence in earnest!
Entertainment Line-Up:
· 11 a.m. Retro Punkz
· 12:15 p.m. The Original Pinettes Brass Band
· 1:30 p.m. Kermit Ruffins
· 2:45 p.m. Flow Tribe
· 4 p.m. Brass-A-Holics
· 5:15 p.m. Big Sam’s Funky Nation
· 6 p.m. Arrival of Rex, King of Carnival and King Zulu
· 6:30 p.m. Fireworks Display
· 6:35 p.m. Big Sam’s Funky Nation
This year’s celebration is made possible by sponsors including WWL-TV (official media sponsor of Lundi Gras and your Krewe for Carnival coverage), New Orleans and Company, Southern Eagle and Downtown Development District.
For more details about the 39th Annual Riverwalk Lundi Gras celebration, please visit riverwalkneworleans.com/events.

