The city of Livingston is inviting the community to celebrate Mardi Gras 2026 with a full day of festivities on Saturday, February 14, 2026, featuring a parade, BBQ cook-off, live music, vendors, games, and family-friendly activities. Organizers say this year’s celebration is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet, with multiple opportunities for local businesses, cooks, organizations, and parade participants to get involved.
Festivities will include vendors from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., live music from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and the Mardi Gras parade stepping off at 12:30 p.m. A highlight of the day will be the Mardi Gras BBQ Cook-Off, with judging beginning at 2 p.m. Categories include Butt, Chicken, and Ribs, with $75 awarded to the best overall winner in each category. Teams are allowed to sell plates following judging, and winners will be announced at 3 p.m.
Applications are now open for all event participants, including parade entries, vendors, BBQ teams, and sponsors. Vendor spaces are available for a $25 fee, while sponsorship opportunities are offered at $250, providing businesses and organizations a chance to support the event and gain visibility during the celebration. BBQ teams will be provided tables by the city, while all other supplies must be brought by participants. Set-up is allowed up to 12 hours prior to judging.
City officials encourage anyone interested in participating to apply early and reach out with questions. Online applications are available for the Parade, Sponsorships, BBQ Cook-Off, and Vendors, and all forms can be accessed through the city’s official application links. Organizers say they are looking forward to welcoming the community for a festive Mardi Gras celebration filled with music, food, and tradition.
Contact Livingston City Hall for more information.
