Key Takeaways:
- The 77th Washington Mardi Gras celebration will take place from January 27 to January 31, featuring a series of events and culminating in a ball at the Washington Hilton.
- The 2026 royal court includes King W. Gray Stream, a Lake Charles businessman, and Queen Sarah Heebe, a New Orleans native and Yale University student.
- The event has a long history, dating back to the 1940s as a party for homesick congressional staffers from Louisiana.
- The celebration has grown into a major networking opportunity, attracting politicians, business leaders, and industry representatives from across the country.
- This year’s theme is "Liberty & Lagniappe," and the event will feature a poster designed by Lake Charles artist Candice Alexander.
Introduction to Washington Mardi Gras
The Mardi Gras festivities are not limited to Louisiana, and one of the most extravagant Carnival balls is approaching in the nation’s capital. For over 75 years, lawmakers, business leaders, and local officials have gathered in Washington, D.C. for a Mardi Gras celebration that combines revelry with political networking. The 77th Washington Mardi Gras will take place from January 27 to January 31, featuring a series of events, including a ball at the Washington Hilton, which has dubbed its bar the 65th parish. This year’s celebration promises to be an exciting and memorable experience, with a range of activities and events planned.
The 2026 Royal Court
The 2026 royal court has been announced, with W. Gray Stream, a Lake Charles businessman, serving as king. Stream is the president of the Stream Cos. and founded Gulf Coast Sequestration in 2018 to develop a carbon capture and sequestration hub in Calcasieu Parish. He was also appointed by Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as the chairman of the Louisiana Economic Development Partnership. The queen of the celebration will be Sarah Heebe, a sophomore at Yale University and New Orleans native. Heebe is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies and serves on the executive board of the Yale Student Energy Association. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-Metairie, will serve as the event chairman, and the 2026 royal court will be presented on January 27 at an afternoon luncheon.
History of Washington Mardi Gras
The Washington Mardi Gras began in the 1940s as a party for homesick congressional staffers from Louisiana. Over the years, it has blossomed into a multi-day event that culminates with a costume ball and parade. The event is hosted by the Mystick Krewe of Louisianians and is paid for through fees, ticket sales, and dues. A new theme is announced each year, accompanied by a poster designed by a Louisiana artist. This year’s theme is "Liberty & Lagniappe," and the poster features an alligator depicting George Washington’s famous crossing of the Delaware River, designed by Lake Charles artist Candice Alexander.
Attendees and Networking Opportunities
The Washington Mardi Gras has extended beyond its lavish parties, expanding into a premier spot for business networking that attracts politicians, business leaders, and even Louisiana festival queens. Over the five days, businesses, nonprofits, chambers, and more pay to have hospitality suites at the Washington Hilton and other nearby hotels, attracting politicos and entrepreneurs eager to pitch themselves and their industries. This year, 24 Louisiana festivals will send their queens to Washington D.C. to represent the industry tied to their respective festivals. The event provides a unique opportunity for networking and building relationships, and it has become a major event in the nation’s capital.
Conclusion
The 77th Washington Mardi Gras promises to be an exciting and memorable experience, with a range of activities and events planned. The celebration has a long history, dating back to the 1940s, and has grown into a major networking opportunity, attracting politicians, business leaders, and industry representatives from across the country. With its unique blend of revelry and networking, the Washington Mardi Gras is an event not to be missed. Whether you’re interested in politics, business, or simply want to experience the magic of Mardi Gras, this event has something for everyone.
