Mardi Gras has a way of sneaking up on me every year!
One minute it’s January, the next I’m digging through the craft bin looking for purple paint and hoping we still have glue that isn’t completely dried out.
The good part is that Mardi Gras crafts don’t need to be complicated to feel fun — a few bright colors, some beads, and kids are already on board.
PIN FOR LATER 📌
This collection of Mardi Gras crafts for kids keeps things simple, colorful, and realistic for busy days.
You’ll find projects that work for classrooms, rainy afternoons, or a quick craft moment at home when kids need something hands-on.
Nothing fussy, nothing overplanned — just creative ideas that feel festive without turning into a whole production.
What is Mardi Gras?
Mardi Gras is a celebration that happens right before the season of Lent begins.
The name comes from French and means “Fat Tuesday,” which refers to enjoying rich foods, bright colors, and fun traditions before a quieter time on the calendar.
For kids, Mardi Gras usually means parades, beads, masks, and lots of purple, green, and gold.
I like to think of it as a day that’s all about color, creativity, and a little extra fun — which is probably why it pairs so well with simple crafts and hands-on activities.
When is Mardi Gras celebrated?
Mardi Gras doesn’t fall on the same date every year. It’s always celebrated on Fat Tuesday, which happens the day before Ash Wednesday.
That means it usually lands sometime in February or early March, depending on the year.
Since the date moves around, I usually check the calendar ahead of time so we can squeeze in a craft or two before it passes — because once it’s gone, it’s gone until next year.
Mardi Gras Crafts For Kids
1. Duct Tape Mardi Gras Mask
This colorful mask comes together with duct tape, sequins, and a popsicle stick—no fancy supplies needed. It’s a great pick for kids who love bold colors and instant dress-up fun.
2. Printable Mardi Gras Mask
This bright mask is all about bold shapes, layered colors, and letting kids go wild with markers and glitter. It’s a fun way to turn a simple template into something that feels totally their own.
3. Layered Feather Mardi Gras Mask
This playful mask uses layered paper, sparkly details, and soft feathers for a look that feels extra festive without being hard to make. Kids will love choosing the colors and adding their own finishing touches.
4. Handprint Mardi Gras Masks
These handprint masks are simple, colorful, and perfect for younger kids who love seeing their own artwork turn into something wearable. A little glitter and a few feathers make them feel instantly Mardi Gras–ready.
FUN FACT: The official Mardi Gras colors — purple, green, and gold — each have a meaning. Purple stands for justice, green represents faith, and gold symbolizes power.
5. DIY Mardi Gras Garland
This simple paper garland adds instant Mardi Gras color to any room with just a few cut circles and string. It’s an easy craft that works well for decorating classrooms, parties, or a quick festive touch at home.
6. Mardi Gras Handprint Mask
This bright handprint mask is all about dots, paint, and a little joyful mess. It’s an easy project that lets kids focus on color and creativity while still feeling perfectly Mardi Gras-ready.
7. Mardi Gras Calming Jar
These glitter-filled calming jars mix bold Mardi Gras colors with a soothing sensory element kids love. They’re a nice balance of festive and quiet—perfect for winding down after all the celebrating.
8. Twizzlers Mardi Gras Bead Necklaces
These candy necklaces double as a craft and a snack, which immediately makes them a kid favorite. Stringing the colors is simple, hands-on, and perfect for a quick Mardi Gras activity.
9. Mini Mardi Gras Shoebox Float
This shoebox float turns a classic craft supply into a full Mardi Gras parade moment. It’s a great project for kids who love building, decorating, and adding lots of colorful details along the way.
10. DIY Mardi Gras Fluffy Slime
This colorful slime mixes classic Mardi Gras shades with a little sparkle for extra fun. It’s a hands-on activity kids can play with long after the craft table is cleared.
11. Mardi Gras Headpiece Craft
This festive crown uses pipe cleaners and paper to create a bold, wearable Mardi Gras accessory. It’s a fun option for kids who love crafts they can proudly wear once they’re finished.
This paper plate crown is easy to make and comfortable enough for kids to wear all day. Decorating the points with stickers and dots makes it a fun, low-pressure craft that still feels special.
13. Mason Jar Lid Parade Streamers
These ribbon streamers made from mason jar lids are simple to assemble and perfect for pretend parades at home. Kids will love shaking them, twirling them, and adding a little Mardi Gras flair to playtime.
These sparkly pinwheels add instant movement and color to any Mardi Gras celebration. They’re fun to make and even better once kids start spinning them around.
I hope these Mardi Gras crafts bring a little extra color and fun to your day. Pick one or two, keep it easy, and let the kids take the lead — the mess usually means they’re doing it right.
However you celebrate, a few beads, bright paint, and a creative afternoon go a long way.