I love New Orleans after multiple trips to Jazz Fest and I’ve been always been curious about Mardi Gras, but thought I was too old to go now. Well, here’s the reality, I’ve realized I’m not getting any younger, so I decided to take the plunge. After Carnival in Trinidad, I became more curious about the full celebration in NOLA. I learned that Mardi Gras parades start marching on Epiphany (1/6) occur every weekend till Fat Tuesday (the day before Ash Wednesday,) and low and behold, it’s mostly a family friendly event if one watches outside of the French Quarter. (Especially coming two weekends early, when there are more parades, but less tourists!) It’s like your local July 4th parade on steroids. There are tons of local high school marching bands, with lots of sequin covered girls stepping and performing color guard; plus groups of colorful adult dancers. Float after float roll by filled with themed costumed folks giving out beads and lots of other fun gifts. And it’s all surrounded by a sea of people in purple, green and yellow. Then Covid happened and the concept of Yardi Gras or Porch Floats appeared, so long walks through cute colorful New Orleans neighborhoods uncover houses decorated for the season. Add a stop or two to listen to jazz and a few seafood filled meals and it makes for a pretty amazing long weekend! It’s true what they say, You Only Live Once. #YOLO
Click HERE to see the full photo album from my trip.
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