RecycleDat! is launching the RecycleDat Donation Derby - a friendly fundraising challenge where local krewes and community members compete to see who can raise the most money to keep the program alive. The Derby turns Mardi Gras spirit into direct support for waste diversion, with every dollar helping ensure the program’s future.

Keep RecycleDat! Rolling for Mardi Gras 2026

RecycleDat! is New Orleans’ collaborative Mardi Gras recycling initiative- proof that we can celebrate boldly and care for our city at the same time. Led by Grounds Krewe in partnership with New Orleans & Company, the Office of Resilience & Sustainability (ORS), Glass Half Full, Osprey Initiative, and a strong coalition of community and industry partners, the program has redefined what sustainable Carnival celebrations can look like.

Now in its third year, RecycleDat! has become a beloved part of Mardi Gras. In 2025 alone, the initiative diverted more than 73,000 pounds of materials from landfills - 46,000 pounds of glass, 23,000 pounds of throws, and nearly 4,000 pounds of aluminum - showing how powerful collective action can be.

With 8 recycling stations, 240 specialized receptacles, and popular features such as Recycle World, Recycling Rewards, the ReCyclists Marching Krewe, and hotel throw recycling, RecycleDat! keeps the parade route cleaner, supports circular economy solutions, and protects New Orleans’ unique environment.

But, the future is uncertain. Due to the city’s significant budget deficit, RecycleDat! funding is on the chopping block for 2026. We need your help to ensure that this effort can continue to grow. If you believe Mardi Gras should reflect the creativity, generosity, and environmental guardianship that define New Orleans, we need you. Join the Donation Derby, volunteer, and help spread the word about this essential program.

Let’s make sure sustainability remains part of the Mardi Gras tradition. Together, we can keep RecycleDat! rolling. ⚜

RecycleDat! 2026 Donation Derby

By Grounds Krewe Nola Inc

RecycleDat! 2026 Donation Derby

Round up your Krewe for the 2026 RecycleDat! Donation Derby! The team that raises the most money wins ultimate bragging rights and will be officially crowned RecycleDat! Royalty.

Team Leaderboard

Team Members