City of Trees Parade Brings Mardi Gras Spirit to Sacramento

Sacramento’s annual City of Trees Parade, a vibrant celebration inspired by the traditions of Mardi Gras, drew thousands of attendees on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The parade, now in its fifth year, featured over 60 performance groups and approximately 1,300 performers, transforming Capitol Mall and Vintage Sacramento into a lively spectacle of music, dance, and artistry.

A Growing Tradition

The City of Trees Parade has quickly become one of Sacramento’s largest and most joyful civic celebrations, aiming to capture the spirit of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras within the Capital City. Organizers emphasize the event as a celebration of Sacramento’s diverse culture and community.

Parade Highlights

This year’s parade included a diverse array of participants, from local marching bands like the Sacramento State marching band and the Grant High Drumline, to dance troupes such as the Con-nec-tion Dance Project and the C.K. McClatchy High School dance team. Attendees were also treated to performances by the Teng Fei Lion Dancers and the Brazilian Rhythms Workshop. Adding to the spectacle were creatively designed floats, including art cars like “Sepia the Cuttlefish” and “Torch the Dragon,” and a float dubbed the “HMS Sea Cow.” The parade also featured a pet parade, costumed pub crawlers known as the Roper Romps, and bicycle groups like Bike Party.

Behind the Scenes

The parade is organized by The Curiosity Collaborative, an all-volunteer team dedicated to fostering curiosity, sustainability, and creative expression. Wes Samms serves as the Lead Organizer/CEO, with Caroline Parrone as Marketing Lead, Ed Fletcher as Senior Fun Consultant, and Jason Gibbs as Parade Marshall. The event relies on the dedication of 100 volunteers who contribute to its success.

Community Impact

Attendees expressed their enthusiasm for the event, with many noting the sense of community and the opportunity to experience a taste of Mardi Gras culture. The parade is seen as a reflection of Sacramento’s diversity and a celebration of its unique identity. As one attendee stated, the event offered a glimpse of the Mardi Gras experience, inspiring a desire to visit New Orleans.

Looking Ahead

The City of Trees Parade continues to grow in popularity, promising an even larger and more vibrant celebration in the years to come. Organizers aim to further expand the event’s reach and impact, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Sacramento’s cultural landscape.