Washington's Unique Mardi Gras Mixes Fun and Politics

Washington, D.C. is gearing up for a special Mardi Gras celebration that's been happening for over 75 years. It's not just about parties; it's also a big networking event for politicians and business leaders.

Main Events

• Main Ball: January 31st at the Washington Hilton
• Bar nicknamed the 65th parish
• Luncheon: Starts on January 27th

2026 Royal Court

• King: W. Gray Stream
• Businessman from Lake Charles
• Runs Stream Cos. and started Gulf Coast Sequestration
• Queen: Sarah Heebe
• Student at Yale University from New Orleans
• Studying Environmental Studies

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise is in charge of the event this year.

History and Tradition

• Started in the 1940s as a small party for Louisiana staffers working in Congress
• Now a big deal with multiple events over several days
• Each year has a new theme and poster
• 2024 Theme: "Liberty & Lagniappe"
• Poster: Features an alligator inspired by George Washington's famous river crossing

Networking and Business

• Hotspot for business networking
• Politicians, business leaders, and festival queens from Louisiana attend
• Over five days, businesses and nonprofits set up hospitality suites to connect with others
• 24 Louisiana festivals will send their queens to represent their industries

Unique Blend of Celebration and Business

Washington Mardi Gras is a unique blend of celebration and business. It's a chance for people to have fun and make important connections. The event shows how traditions can evolve and bring people together in unexpected ways.