The city takes on a whole new life during Mardi Gras season, and there’s a reason it’s the most popular time to visit New Orleans. Since we’re only a few weeks way from the big day, it’s time to start planning out your schedule so you don’t miss any of these great parades. Below we’ve listed 10 Mardi Gras parades you simply cannot miss this year.

1. Krewe of Pontchartrain

The Krewe of Pontchartrain began in 1975, its name of course coming from Lake Pontchartain. The parade route is roughly 5 miles long and starts at the corner of Tchoupitoulas and Napoleon Avenue and rolls down Napoleon before turning onto St. Charles Avenue and stops at Gallier Hall for the official toast. From there, they continue on St. Charles before turning on Canal Street and then ending on Tchoupitoulas. Be on the lookout for their most well-known floats, like "Mr. Mudbug" and "The Super Grouper".

Saturday, February 3rd, 1pm.

2. Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus

Science fiction fans, this is your parade. The Krewe of Chewbacchus celebrates Trekkies, Star Wars fans, gamers, cosplayers, conspiracy theorists, and anything and everything that falls under that umbrella. They have a new route this year, so be sure to check out the map above!

Saturday February 3, 7pm

3. Krewe of Isis

Founded in 1973, the all-female Krewe is comprised of 250 riders, 21 floats, and a fun Egyptian theme that rolls around Metairie. Keep an eye out for their signature throw, decorated pairs of flip-flops.

Saturday, February 10, 6:30pm

4. Krewe of Muses

Founded in 2001, Muses is the first all-female Mardi Gras Parade to roll at night in uptown New Orleans. This particular parade is known for the Muses shoe, one of the most coveted Mardi Gras throws.

Thursday, February 8, 6:30pm

5. Krewe of Tucks

Krewe of Tucks began as a group of Loyola University students in 1969 and has grown into a 1,300 member organization. This day parade is a wonderful event and you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

Saturday, February 10, 12pm

6. Krewe of Endymion

This incredible super krewe features more than 3,000 riders and 37 floats, making it the largest Mardi Gras parade. Endymion’s motto is "throw ’til it hurts" so you’ll be sure to come away with tons of good throws.

Saturday, February 10, 4:15pm

7. Krewe of Bacchus

The Krewe of Bacchus staged its first parade in 1969 and consisted of 250 members and 15 floats. Today, the Krewe of Bacchus has grown to 1,400 members and 33 animated super-floats. Bacchus has several signature floats, including King Kong, Queen Kong, Baby Kong, Bacchasauaus, and several others. You certainly don’t want to miss this Super Krewe!

Sunday, February 11, 5:15pm

8. Krewe of Orpheus

This Lundi Gras parade began in 1993, and it’s one of the largest parades in the city. The 1,400 male and female krewe ride 38 floats, including one of their most famous floats, the Smokey Mary— an eight unit "steam locomotive" float.

Monday, February 12, 6pm

9. Krewe of Zulu

The Krewe of Zulu has been a Mardi Gras tradition since 1909, and it’s the perfect way to start your Mardi Gras Day. You won’t want to miss this predominately African American parade, as they have one of the most prized throws out of all of the parades during Mardi Gras—the coveted Zulu coconut!

Tuesday, February 13, 8am.

10. Krewe of Rex

The King of Carnival has been around since 1872, and is one of the oldest participating groups in Mardi Gras. Known for the Krewe’s colorful themes, original costumes, and beautifully decorated hand-painted floats, this is a parade you can’t afford to miss.

Tuesday, February 13, 10am.

What's your favorite parade? Let us know in the comments below!