More Mardi Gras!

The most memorable part of Mardi Gras are the parades and the masked balls following them...so what's so special? Proud residents of The Big Easy claim that Mardi Gras parades boast the most imaginative themes, spectacular floats and outrageous costumes on the planet. During the 12-day period leading up to Mardi Gras, parades start at 8am and continue until after sundown.  Each parade depicts a specific subject with each float reflecting the particular krewe's theme for that year.  Themes have included historical subjects, children's stories, legends, and famous people. The most spectacular parades occur during the last five days of the celebration when the oldest clubs wind their way through the streets. All parades follow a similar format:  the captain, or krewe leader appears at the head of the procession, on horseback, a special float or a convertible.  Next come the officers, king or queen, the court, followed by the title float and the theme floats that carry the riding members.

"Throw Me Something Mister!"

The most unusual aspect of these parades is the interaction between onlookers and those in the parade.  Perfectly normal people become addicted...and very competitive...at selecting the most strategic spot on the streets to collect the most "throws," stuffing their bags (brought along for that express purpose) with doubloons, beads, cups and medallions.

Add the parties, and parades to delicious New Orleans cuisine, fantastic dixieland, jazz and blues, dipped in that delightful Southern hospitality and you've got yourself a party! Laissez les bon temps roulons!

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