The official lineup for 2026 Gator by the Bay will feature over 100 performances on seven stages, showcasing genres such as zydeco, Cajun, blues, rockabilly, salsa, New Orleans jazz, and much more. Plus, Mardi Gras parades, kids activities, dance instructors, delicious Southern food, and nonstop bayou-style fun all weekend long!
Join the Gator by the Bay Festival from May 7–10 on Mother’s Day weekend for the ultimate waterfront Mardi Gras celebration, right on the San Diego Bay at Spanish Landing Park.
Mardi gras in may!
It’s the most fun this side of the bayou—Mardi Gras in May, y’all! Enjoy 4 days of nonstop music, dancing, and good eating, with authentic Creole & Cajun fare and 10,000 lbs of crawfish flown straight from the bayous.
Let the Good Times Dance
Dance lessons keep things moving at the Bon Temps Social Club Dance Pavilion, where all ages and experience levels are welcome. Whether it’s your first step or your favorite way to spend the day, it’s an easygoing spot to jump in and have fun together.
Get a taste of Louisiana
Experience a parade of real-deal Creole and Cajun flavors—featuring 10,000 pounds of live crawfish fresh from the bayou. Savor chef-led cooking demos, jump into hands-on classes, and feast on beignets, po’boys, gumbo, and more from our top-notch vendors. It’s an honest-to-goodness Louisiana throwdown, served up San Diego–style.
The mardi gras market
Looking for a “little something extra” to sweeten your festival good times? Stroll through the Mardi Gras Market, where you’ll find stylish clothing, eye-catching jewelry, art, official festival merch, musical instruments, and gourmet treats—plus plenty of Mother’s Day–worthy finds.
Rrecognized LOUISIANA authenticity
Since 2012, Gator By The Bay has been an official ambassador of Louisiana, sharing the state’s vibrant culture, traditions, and joie de vivre in San Diego. Experience the lively spirit of Cajun and Creole culture with authentic food, music, art, and history.
A carnival for all
Gator By The Bay has something for all ages! Alongside great music and authentic Louisiana eats, families can enjoy kid-friendly activities all festival long. Kids 17 and under enter FREE with a paid adult, making it easy to bring the whole crew
For detailed information view:https://gatorbythebay.com/
