Top 11 Tips for Catching the Most Mardi Gras Beads in Louisiana

Get our free mobile app

If you're heading out to catch some beads for the final weekend of Mardi Gras here in Louisiana, first of all, have fun! Second, we hope you catch your weight in Mardi Gras beads and other trinkets!

How can you catch more Mardi Gras beads than anyone else?

I've ridden in more than my fair share of Mardi Gras parades, and while I'm no expert, I know who and what I like to throw my hard-earned money to. And make no mistake, those beads and other throws are a gift to the community paid for by the members of the Krewe of whichever Mardi Gras parade you're attending.

So how do you get the most beads? I have a few pointers for you!

1. Get a cute kid. Even if you have to borrow one!

2. Make a target with a great sign, I'll try and make a basket or hit your target every single time.

3. Don't cross the barricades and stay behind the lines. We won't throw anything to you if you're too close to the float, it's a huge safety issue.

4. Look selfless, point to the small child next to you... then put your hands up!

5. I'm a sucker for a good dad, if a daddy has his kid on his shoulders, etc... I'm always throwing in their direction!

6. Guys, much like the parent trying to get beads for their kids, if you make it known you're trying to catch for your girl, we'll throw to you every time, too!

7. Bring a bag... If you have a ton of beads around your neck and the next person doesn't, I assume you already have plenty. Make sure to stash the beads you've already caught regularly so your bare neck looks sad and lonely.

8. Don't beg for a cup, you'll get what I'm throwing at the time and if it looks like my beads aren't enough for you, I'll skip you completely.

9. Skin to win!

10. Let's face it, no matter who's throwing, if they think you're hot, you're getting beads!

11. Lastly, if a rider makes eye contact with you, those are your beads!