Krewe Announces That Popular Lafayette Mardi Gras Parade is Canceled

(Lafayette, Louisiana) - Another Mardi Gras parade has been canceled this year in Acadiana.

Just a few days ago, we had to share the unfortunate news that the Carencro Mardi Gras parade was canceled this year due to the threat of below-freezing temperatures. Another Krewe has announced it has canceled its 2026 parade.

One of the more popular parades in Lafayette during Carnival Season is a parade that highlights "Man's Best Friend," dogs. Families love to attend this downtown Lafayette parade to begin the season, as so many pet owners take part in this great event.

Sadly, Krewe Des Chien announced on social media that the parade is not happening this year, but they plan to bring back the "Dog Parade," as some call it, in 2027.

The Krewe hopes everyone has a great Mardi Gras, and we look forward to seeing the dogs with their beads and costumes in 2027. As mentioned earlier, many children and families look forward to this parade all year.

I reached out to the Krewe to ask why the parade has been canceled this year.  I was told it takes a lot of work to produce this parade, and there's currently not enough support to host it. I was also reminded that the parade did not take place last year for the same reason.

The organizer went on to say that, with other commitments around Mardi Gras, they could not devote the time needed to run this parade and that it would be a huge liability for one person to handle.

Melissa Meeker, the organizer of Krewe Des Chien, says she hopes a nonprofit or business will take it over and that anyone interested can contact her on Facebook.

Mardi Gras Safety Reminder

Until then, we hope you enjoy the parades and balls for Mardi Gras 2026. Remember, police say that if you are bringing small kids to any parade this Carnival Season, you should write your name and a contact phone number on a piece of paper and place it in your child's pants pocket.

In the event that your child gets separated from you, this gives the police direct contact with you once they have your child secured with them.

The announcement from Krewe des Chein that the 2026 parade is being called off this year was posted on Tuesday morning via social media.

For those who have never attended the Krewe Des Chien parade in downtown Lafayette, here's a look at the "Dog Parade." We hope it returns in 2027.

This will make you miss this parade even more.