With Mardi Gras fast approaching, now’s a good time to share the joy of the celebration. These Mardi Gras picture books for kids are a great way to start. I especially love picture books for this holiday because it is such a visual one. So let’s take a look at the books your kids may enjoy to learn more about Mardi Gras.
Introducing Mardi Gras to Kids with Picture Books
The Night Before Mardi Gras
by Gail Perkins Nettles (Author)
Told in the familiar rhythm of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas this book gives a fun look on what the night before Mardi Gras might be like in New Orlean’s homes.
Mimi’s First Mardi Gras
by Alice Couvillon (Author), Elizabeth Moore (Author), Marilyn Rougelot (Illustrator)
Introduce your kids to Mardi Gras with Mimi! She’s also experiencing it for the first time, so they’ll get to see it through her eyes.
Mardi Gras ABCs
by Connie Toledano (Author, Illustrator)
Use the alphabet and rhyme to learn about Mardi Gras.
Fun Mardi Gras Picture Book for Kids
Mermaids of New Orleans
by Sally Asher (Author), Melissa Vandiver (Illustrator)
The mermaids living in the waters around New Orleans have one day a year they can walk on land. They decide that Mardi Gras is the perfect time to join in the festivities.
Picture books about Mardi Gras beads for kids
The Little Purple Mardi Gras Bead
by Julie Rowley (Author), John Paquette (Illustrator)
Read about the little purple Mardi Gras bead that wishes to be caught. This book is written and illustrated by New Orleans locals.
Throw Me Something, Mister: Two young children see their first Mardi Gras Parade in New Orleans
by Malcolm Wright (Author)
Throw Me Something, Mister is a good basic introduction to New Orleans’ Mardi Gras celebration. However, please take notes of the reviews that suggest there may be some wrong information included.
Picture books about Mardi Gras King Cakes for kids
Timothy Hubble and the King Cake Party
by Anita Prieto (Author), Virginia Howard (Illustrator)
Kids who worry about the plastic baby baked inside of the King Cake may appreciate this one. Timothy is invited to his first King Cake Party, but he doesn’t know what to think about that plastic baby.
The King Cake Baby
by Keila Dawson (Author), Vernon Smith (Illustrator)
This trickster tale follows the uncatchable King Cake baby as he runs throughout famous New Orleans’ sites. That is, until the right baker figures out how to catch it.
Learn about the history and culture of Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras
by Rebecca Pettiford (Author)
Learn about Mardi Gras’ history, cultural impact, and more with this informative book for kids.
What are some of your favorite Mardi Gras books for kids?
If you’re looking for more check out children’s books about New Orleans and children’s books set in Louisiana.