Pensacola Pawdi Gras Returns for Mardi Gras Season 2026
One of Pensacola’s most popular pet-friendly Mardi Gras traditions is back as Pensacola Pawdi Gras returns for the 2026 season, bringing costumed dogs, local vendors, and a full afternoon of Mardi Gras fun to downtown.
Pawdi Gras has become a staple of the Pensacola Mardi Gras calendar, offering a family-friendly, walkable event that blends parade traditions with community and pets front and center.
What Is Pensacola Pawdi Gras
Pensacola Pawdi Gras is a Mardi Gras parade and festival designed especially for pets and their humans. Dogs of all sizes take part in the walking parade, dressed in Mardi Gras costumes while collecting beads and cheering from the sidelines.
The event typically includes:
A walking parade route
Costume contests for pets
Local vendors and sponsors
Food and drinks available nearby
A lively but relaxed Mardi Gras atmosphere
It’s one of the easiest Mardi Gras events to attend if you’re bringing kids, pets, or visitors who want something less crowded than the larger downtown parades.
When and Where Pawdi Gras Takes Place
Date: Saturday, February 1, 2026
Time: Event activities begin in the afternoon
Location: Downtown Pensacola
Participants must register in advance to walk in the parade with their pets. Spectators can attend for free and line the route to watch the parade and festivities.
How to Participate With Your Dog
Pet owners who want to walk in the parade can register online ahead of the event. Registration typically includes entry for one dog and handler, with proceeds benefiting local animal-related causes.
Dogs must be:
On a short leash
Comfortable in crowds
Under handler control at all times
Costumes are encouraged and often steal the show.
Why Pawdi Gras Is a Local Favorite
Pawdi Gras stands out because it offers a Mardi Gras experience that’s:
Pet-friendly
Family-friendly
Easy to navigate
Less crowded than major parades
It’s also a great option for visitors staying downtown who want a Mardi Gras event within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and hotels.
Planning More Mardi Gras Events in Pensacola?
If you’re building out your Mardi Gras plans beyond Pawdi Gras, these guides can help you plan the rest of the season:
• Pensacola Mardi Gras 2026 Guide
Parade dates, start times, downtown events, and Pensacola Beach celebrations.
• Kids and Kritters Parade on Pensacola Beach
A family-friendly Mardi Gras parade with costumed pets, mini floats, and activities for kids.
• Things to Do for Mardi Gras Beyond the Parades
Classes, pub crawls, themed bars, and unique Mardi Gras experiences.
Mardi Gras season is just getting started, and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate around Pensacola and the beach.
