City of New Orleans issues restrictions ahead of Mardi Gras

The city of New Orleans announced regulations and enforcement procedures for the time frame leading up to Mardi Gras Day, Tuesday, Feb. 16, in order to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Beginning next Friday, Feb. 12, through Mardi Gras Day, Feb. 16, the following restrictions will be in effect: 

  • All bars citywide, both indoor and outdoor, will be closed, including bars that serve food and are operating as restaurants
  • There will be no package liquor sales in the French Quarter
  • All sales of to-go drinks will be banned 
  • Bourbon Street, Decatur Street and Frenchmen Street will be closed to pedestrians and vehicles from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. 
  • Restaurants and retail stores can remain open and residents and visitors will have access
  • There will be no loitering on Bourbon Street
  • The Claiborne Avenue underpass and corridor will also be fenced off
  • Large gatherings are banned and will not be tolerated — including activities that encourage people to congregate, like street vending and performing

On Jan. 28, President Michael Fitts announced that the university community would observe Safer-at-Home guidelines for a two-week period.

Tulane University students will have class on Monday, Feb. 15, but Tuesday, Feb. 16, is a university holiday.

For a full list of guidelines and restrictions that apply under the Modified Phase 2, please click here