Shreveport-Bossier Kicks Off Mardi Gras Season With 12th Night

The countdown to Mardi Gras is on. The Krewe of Centaur has officially announced it will host the annual Shreveport-Bossier 12th Night Celebration to kick off the 2026 Mardi Gras season.

This is the event that formally starts the party...transitioning everyone from the holidays to the parade route.

What 12th Night Means for Mardi Gras

You've probably heard this before, but just in case you don't remember with a 12th Night celebration is all about, we can give you a recap. 12th Night is a huge tradition in the Mardi Gras season. It's also known as the Epiphany, and it falls on the twelfth day after Christmas, officially ending the holiday season and starting Carnival.

It's the first night it's acceptable to eat king cake and, more importantly, it's when all the krewes present their new royal courts. This is our first look at the kings, queens, and captains who will rule the 2026 season.

All Krewes Come Together For One Party

The 2026 12th Night Celebration is set for Saturday, January 3rd. The entire Ark-La-Tex Mardi Gras community will gather at the Bossier Civic Center for the big event. This is a united event, bringing together all the major krewes. You'll see royalty presented from Centaur, Gemini, Highland, and many more, all in one place.

But don't think that this event is limited to just Krewe members. Tickets for this party are open to the public, and the dress code is simple: just wear your favorite Mardi Gras attire. That's it, no ties required.

How to Secure Your Tickets

This celebration is open to the public, but it is a ticketed event. You cannot buy tickets at the door...they must be purchased in advance.

Tickets are on sale now, with options for both individual seats and reserved tables. To get your tickets for the 2026 12th Night Celebration, you can go right here.