Mountain Mardi Gras: T-Rex Parade Debuts in Hendersonville
If you’re wondering what’s it like living in Hendersonville, imagine this: a Mardi Gras parade full of creativity, community, and mini-floats rolling down historic Main Street. That’s exactly what you’ll get with the debut of the city’s first-ever ‘Mountain Mardi Gras,’ featuring the whimsical T-Rex Parade on February 7th, 2026.
This isn’t your typical Mardi Gras celebration—instead of towering floats and massive crowds, Hendersonville’s version brings big fun in adorably small packages. Organizers have partnered with local nonprofit Apple Country Woodcrafters to build handcrafted wooden wagons, which serve as mini-floats in the parade. From flashy sequins to clever themes, locals will let their creativity shine while showcasing the charm that makes living in Hendersonville so special.
A Parade Like No Other
The T-Rex Parade takes inspiration from New Orleans’ Petit Rəx Parade, known for its shoebox-sized floats packed with color and detail. Hendersonville’s little floats will roll along the sidewalks of Main Street, allowing spectators to see every tiny masterpiece up close. It’s a cheerful twist on a winter afternoon and a perfect mid-season pick-me-up for locals and visitors alike.
Downtown Manager Jamie Carpenter enthusiastically shared, “This event combines creativity, community spirit, and a little Mardi Gras fun during an otherwise sleepy time of year in downtown Hendersonville.”
Get Involved: Join a Krewe!
If you’re thinking about participating, here’s how it works:
- Form a Krewe: Rally friends, a community group, or your business to form a ‘Krewe’ and build a mini float.
- Register: A $250 fee includes a handcrafted wooden wagon from Apple Country Woodcrafters. Proceeds support their Annual Toy Drive that benefits local nonprofits with over 3,000 toys each year.
- Design Your Float: This year’s theme is “Mountain Mardi Gras.” The floats will be judged—and yes, there will be prizes!
- Celebrate: In the lead-up to the parade, downtown will come alive with mask-making, cajun cooking contests, and more.
- Parade Day: On February 7th at 2 p.m., the parade kicks off at the Hendersonville Welcome Center, parades up and down Main Street, and wraps with a festive after party at Oklawaha Brewing Company.
Why It Matters
This might be a new event, but it already reflects the vibrant, welcoming culture that draws so many people who move to Hendersonville. It’s more than just fun—it’s about neighbors connecting, supporting local causes, and showcasing the creativity that thrives in this mountain town.
Events like this breathe life into downtown during the slower seasons and prove that living in Hendersonville means getting to be part of a close-knit, community-oriented lifestyle. Whether you’re a longtime resident or are considering moving to Hendersonville, there’s no better way to get involved and soak up local culture.
Plan Your Trip or Your Move
If you’re venturing into the area for the first time for the parade, make a weekend of it! Check out downtown’s eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, and breweries. For ideas, the official tourism site is a great place to start planning your itinerary.
And if you’ve been looking for a sign to finally relocate to Hendersonville, this might be it! The city’s blend of lively events, natural beauty, and strong sense of community makes it one of western North Carolina’s most desirable places to call home.
Whether you’re rolling a mini-float down Main Street or cheering from the sidewalk, this ‘Mountain Mardi Gras’ is bound to become one of the most memorable things to do in Hendersonville each winter.
How to Register and Attend
Only 20 Krewe spots are available, so don’t wait to sign up. To secure your place—or just learn more about the event—visit the official City of Hendersonville Mardi Gras page at hendersonvillenc.gov/mardigras.
This February, get ready to laugh, connect, and march with your community. The tiniest parade in town might just become your biggest new tradition!