February 18, 2025 | From City of New Orleans
New Orleans Health Department Expands Mardi Gras First Aid Stations with Two New Initiatives for 2025
Situated along major parade routes in Uptown and Mid-City, the stations serve as accessible emergency care centers where attendees can receive quick medical attention without leaving the festivities.
"Carnival is one of the most celebrated traditions in New Orleans, and ensuring the health and safety of our residents and visitors is a top priority," stated Dr. Jennifer Avegno, Director of the New Orleans Health Department. "Through our partnership with LCMC Health, NOEMS, the American Red Cross, and other dedicated organizations, the First Aid Stations provide immediate care along parade routes. We are committed to keeping the Mardi Gras spirit alive while making sure that everyone can celebrate safely."
“LCMC Health is prepared to support the community throughout Mardi Gras season," said the Chief Medical Officer of LCMC Health, John Heaton, MD. "Our commitment to providing exceptional care extends beyond hospital walls, and we are proud to bring our passion to parade routes. As a health system deeply embedded in this community, we look forward to partnering with the New Orleans Health Department and New Orleans EMS to unite in our goal to ensure a safe, healthy, and enjoyable Mardi Gras experience for all."
New for 2025: Nursing Nest & Sensory Bags
This year, we are introducing two new initiatives aimed at making Mardi Gras more inclusive and family-friendly:
- LCMC Health Nursing Nest: For the first time, breastfeeding mothers and nursing parents will have access to private, clean, and quiet spaces at every First Aid Station. These individual nursing tents offer a comfortable and sanitary environment for parents to feed their babies away from the crowds.
- KultureCity Sensory Bags: Recognizing that Mardi Gras can be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities, NOLA Ready has partnered with KultureCity to provide free sensory bags at select First Aid Stations. These bags, available from February 27 to March 4, contain specialized tools designed to help individuals of all ages remain calm and comfortable in high-stimulation environments.
"Empowering communities through inclusion and innovation, New Orleans and Mardi Gras 2025 is aligned with the same visionary spirit as KultureCity® and is championing a world where every individual, regardless of ability, is not just accepted but celebrated for their unique contributions to the tapestry of humanity! We are honored to support the community with sensory accessibility and inclusion.” Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity®.
Essential First Aid Services
The First Aid Stations are staffed by CPR and first aid-certified volunteers trained to provide treatment for basic injuries. If necessary, professional staff will assist in transporting individuals to nearby emergency care facilities.
Each station will also be stocked with these items at no cost to the public:
- Bandages and first aid essentials
- Sunscreen
- Ice packs
- COVID-19 test kits
- Hand sanitizer
- Free Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault awareness bandanas. Scan the QR code and get immediate information and links to resources.
Mardi Gras 2025 First Aid Station Locations
Uptown (available 2/21-2/23 & 2/26-3/4):
- Louisiana & St. Charles
- St. Andrew & St. Charles
- Howard & St. Charles (The Circle)
- Canal & St. Charles
Mid-City (Endymion Only – 3/1):
- N Hennessey & Orleans
- Norman C Francis & Canal (New Location)
- S Galvez & Canal (New Location)
- Canal & St. Charles (Parade route)
- Howard & St. Charles (Parade route)
As in years past, the First Aid Stations will be the hub for lost children. Our big red tents are easily identifiable locations where lost kids can be reunited with their families. If a child gets separated from their family, parade-goers and Louisiana State Police officials can assist with the reunification.
For more information about the First Aid Stations or other public health services during Mardi Gras, visit nola.gov/health.