The City of El Centro’s Signature Event is the Mardi Gras Light Parade & Street Festival! The City of El Centro recreates the world famous Mardi Gras with a Lighted Parade and Street Fair. The traditional themed colors of purple, green and gold, encompass the entire Downtown area. Our whole community eagerly anticipates the parade, street festival, glittery costumes, lights, masks and beads. Come and enjoy Jazz music and New Orleans style cuisine . Celebrating New Orleans tradition with a Light Parade & Street Festival creates an exciting and fun evening for the entire family.