Happy Mardi Gras!

Everywhere else in the world, it's probably just an ordinary Tuesday......but if you live in New Orleans, it's one of the most anticipated days of the year. It's Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras, and the entire city has been partying, going to parades, attending balls, and enjoying the season of Carnival for the past few weeks. The city rolls out the red carpet for visitors from all over the world, and literally millions of people from the city to the suburbs come out to enjoy good times that only can be experienced in our town. There's delicious food, music, gorgeous costumes and floats, and of course, plenty of beads and trinkets to catch. No one has work or school, so families get together for picnics, parties, and a day of nothing but fun.

Can't get here for Mardi Gras? Here are a few pics to get a little taste of the holiday, but as most will tell you, you have to experience it to believe it. Mardi Gras is steeped in history, tradition, and pageantry, but it also brings out the fun and ridiculous side of life.


The floats are works of art.


Music is a big part of the parades, especially the marching bands.


Homes are decked out with flags, wreathes, lights, and decorations in the Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold.


Beautiful costumes for the riders.


Beads! Beads! Throw me somethin', mister!


Riders on the floats must remain masked.


Everyone eats the traditional king cake.


Even the pets get in on the fun.


The royal court of Rex, King of Mardi Gras, where his ball officially closes Carnival season and ushers in Lent.


Steeped in tradition and history, those invited to the Rex Ball are presented to the royal court.


Occasionally, a tourist has a little too much fun and loses his way back to his hotel room!


And you can listen to the Mardi Gras anthem.

Hope you enjoyed a little taste of Mardi Gras! Laissez le bon temps rouler!