If you are fortunate enough to live in the Big Easy, then you know what time it is.  It’s Mardi Gras time in New Orleans.  That means parades, parties, and costumes!

Parades are cool.  Decorated floats ride in succession with marching bands and dancers in between.  The riders on the floats are wearing costumes that correlate to the theme of their float and the parade.  The riders’ costumes are quite elaborate: there are lots of sequins and masks.  And don’t forget the throws, which range from a variety of beads, toys, stuffed animals, dabloons, t-shirts, and even panties.  Everybody and anybody can enjoy a parade.

The parties are wild and unforgetable.  Many people who live on parade routes or near parade routes have parade parties, where people get together to enjoy the parade, food, King Cake, and just hanging out.  And then there are the Mardi Gras balls.   Each Krewe has their own ball, with King and Queen and Court.  The costumes are fit for true royalty.  The food is New Orleans delicious.  And the revelry continues on into the morning.  You don’t want to miss an authentic Mardi Gras party!

Costumes are a welcome part of Mardi Gras.  Parade goers can wear any kind of costume they choose: they may go along with the theme of the parade, they may opt for something more unique, or maybe just wear wild make-up, a wig, a mask, or something of that sort.  There really are no rules.  Of course, all float riders wear costumes.  Costumes are a tradition that really make Mardi Gras what it is.

Mardi Gras is a time to party and have fun.  There are so many enjoyable facets and people of any age can experience what Mardi Gras has to offer.