How to Decorate for Mardi Gras with Paper & Nylon Lanterns
When it comes to throwing a truly unforgettable Mardi Gras party, nothing says “let the good times roll” quite like a vibrant ceiling filled with colorful lanterns. I still remember the first time I stepped into a ballroom decked out for Fat Tuesday: waves of purple, green, and gold lanterns swayed overhead, instantly transporting me — and every guest — to the heart of New Orleans. If you’re ready to create your own festive ambiance, you’ll love how easy (and affordable) it is to decorate with paper lanterns Mardi Gras style. In this post, I’ll walk you through clever ways to use Mardi Gras paper lanterns and nylon lanterns at your next event. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a home bash, or a venue transformation, you’ll leave with practical tips and creative inspiration to make your space shine.
We’ll cover lantern sizing, color schemes, and assembly basics, plus I’ll share pro tips for eye-catching displays, budget hacks, and a step-by-step guide to creating your own DIY Mardi Gras lantern swags. Let’s dive in and get your space ready for revelry!
Why Choose Paper and Nylon Lanterns for Mardi Gras?
If you’re searching for decorations that pack a festive punch without draining your budget, paper lanterns for Mardi Gras are your best friend. Here’s why I recommend them again and again:
- Big visual impact: Even a few well-placed lanterns elevate the energy and vibe of any room.
- Cost-effective: Compared to floral arrangements or elaborate backdrops, paper and nylon lanterns are super affordable — perfect if you’re working with a tight decor budget.
- Reusable & lightweight: Most lanterns can be disassembled and stored for future events, making them eco-friendly and practical for busy planners.
- Easy assembly: Lanterns, especially the standard 9.5-inch size, are simple to pop open and hang — even if you’re flying solo on party prep.
Mardi Gras Lantern Decorations: Colors & Sizing Guide
The signature look for Mardi Gras lantern decorations is all about embracing the classic trio: purple, green, and gold lanterns. These hues aren’t just traditional — they create an instant party atmosphere!
- Purple: Represents justice and is rich and regal.
- Green: Symbolizes faith and adds freshness to the palette.
- Gold: Denotes power and brings warmth and sparkle.
Most Mardi Gras paper lanterns come in a versatile 9.5-inch size, which is large enough to stand out but compact enough to hang in multiples — even in smaller venues or home parties!
Step-by-Step: How to Assemble and Hang Mardi Gras Paper Lanterns
If you’re new to working with paper lanterns for Mardi Gras, don’t worry — assembly is a breeze! Here’s how I do it:
- Gently expand each lantern until it's fully open and round.
- Insert the included wire frame to hold the shape.
- Attach a string, ribbon, or fishing line to the top hook or loop.
- Hang from the ceiling, chandeliers, or branches (for outdoor setups).
Pro tip: Vary the lengths for a playful, floating effect — and don’t forget to mix in different quantities of purple, green, and gold lanterns for a true Mardi Gras look!
Creative Ways to Decorate with Paper Lanterns for Mardi Gras
Need some paper lantern Mardi Gras ideas beyond basic ceiling decor? Here are some of my favorite, tried-and-tested displays for maximum festivity — perfect for any venue or home celebration:
1. Festive Mardi Gras Ceiling Decor
- Cover the ceiling above the dance floor or main table with clusters of hanging Mardi Gras lanterns for instant impact.
- Alternate lantern colors and sizes for depth and variety.
- Drape matching streamers or metallic bead necklaces between lantern groupings for extra glamour.
2. DIY Mardi Gras Lantern Swags & Centerpieces
- Combine lanterns with ribbons, faux greenery, table runners, and classic Mardi Gras beads.
- Create a “lantern swag” — a strand of lanterns interspersed with sparkly accents that you can hang behind buffets, over entryways, or straight down the center of banquet tables.
- Add themed elements like fleur de lis cutouts, masks, or silk flowers as lantern toppers.
3. Outdoor Patio or Venue Entrance Displays
- Suspend nylon lanterns for Mardi Gras (great for outdoor use) from trees, pergolas, or shepherd’s hooks.
- Pair with battery-operated string lights inside for a glowing effect at night.
For more inspiration and product options, check out the Paper Lantern Store’s Mardi Gras collection.
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