Set up a tabletop parade where everybody makes a float and gets a good view. Cover a table with paper, draw a route with two bends and mark a grandstand at one end. Give each pair an empty carton and scraps in purple, green and gold.
Holiday dates for planning
| Observance | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 | 2029 | 2030 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mardi Gras / Shrove Tuesday | Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | Tuesday, February 9, 2027 | Tuesday, February 29, 2028 | Tuesday, February 13, 2029 | Tuesday, March 5, 2030 |
Mardi Gras / Shrove Tuesday date reference
Build and announce the floats
Allow eight minutes to decorate a carton around a theme such as music, gardens or local wildlife. Give each float a name and one detail people should look for. One child moves the float while a partner announces it. Swap roles on the return trip so both children can lead.
Play the parade rhythm game
The first bandleader taps a four-beat rhythm on the table. Everyone echoes it, then a new leader changes one beat. For a quiet finish, let children decorate paper masks and have partners guess which shapes or patterns inspired them. Send the mask coloring page home so children can try a second design.
Check the Mardi Gras calendar.
Printable activity sheets
Mardi Gras Activity Sheets costs $0.99 and includes five activities and an answer key. Choose a page for each guest or print the whole pack.
Optional supplies
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Crayola crayons give guests a choice of colors for the carnival mask page.