North Texas' largest Mardi Gras celebration returns to Oak Cliff this weekend with floats, music, and colorful costumes rolling down Davis Street on Sunday afternoon.
The Oak Cliff Mardi Gras parade kicks off at 1 p.m. on February 15, starting near the Kessler Theater at Nova and continuing east along Davis Street. The event is billed as the biggest Mardi Gras celebration in North Texas.
Organizers from Go Oak Cliff recommend arriving early to secure a prime viewing spot along the parade route. Spectators are encouraged to bring friends and family for the festive afternoon celebration, which has become a beloved Oak Cliff tradition.
The parade will feature dozens of floats, marching bands, drill teams, and neighborhood groups showcasing the spirit of Carnival season. Participants will throw beads to crowds lining the street, following the New Orleans tradition.
Transportation and parking information is available for attendees. Organizers recommend using public transportation, rideshare services, or bicycles to reach the parade route. Street parking will be available on non-permit side streets throughout the area, though many streets closer to Bishop Arts are permit-only.
Additional parking will be available at Kidd Springs Recreation Center at 711 W. Canty Street, a lot at the corner of Bishop Avenue and 9th Street, and the Methodist Dallas Medical Center paid parking garage near Beckley and Colorado.
The event coincides with other Mardi Gras festivities in the Oak Cliff area. Earlier Sunday morning, the Dash for Beads 5K run and one-mile walk take place at 9:30 a.m. through Kessler Park, with proceeds benefiting local nonprofits focused on fitness, healthy eating, and the arts.
Groups interested in participating with floats in future parades can register through the Go Oak Cliff website. The organization hosts several annual festivals throughout the year, including Oaktoberfest, Bastille on Bishop, and Blues, Bandits, and BBQ.
Fat Tuesday, the final day of Carnival season, falls on February 17 this year.
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