Mardi Gras Unmasked

Mardi Gras Parades

Mark — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:50:16 +0000

The real Mardi Gras is about creative costuming and krewes staging processions that are a feast for the senses — with floats that bemuse and entertain; rollicking bands full of joyful noise; inspired dance troupes and showers of baubles that stoke an exhilarating feeding frenzy. Can’t you almost feel the boom of dat big bass drum?

Mardi Gras 101

Mark — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:49:30 +0000

Comprising a range of art forms and a dizzying amalgamation of happenings and habits, Carnival has a storied history and its own peculiar lexicon. Bone up on trappings, traditions and symbols — and find out why this season of merriment and make-believe best exemplifies the cultural richness of New Orleans.

Tips and Tricks

Mark — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:47:18 +0000

Seasoned advice on parade etiquette, reaping throw booty, balcony and grandstand access, how to catch a ride in a parade and much more, including answers to the most-asked Mardi Gras questions of all time — where to find a place to pee.

Local Color and Customs

Mark — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:46:49 +0000

Everybody knows that Mardi Gras is a time to frolic and have fun, to “throw down,” as they say in the Crescent City. But beyond the superficial stereotypes, the celebration represents an authentic and compelling expression of indigenous folkways.

Colorful Characters

Mark — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:46:29 +0000

Rex and his queen may officially reign over festivities, but Carnivaldom is full of skilled artisans, larger-than-life personalities and visionaries who enrich the panorama of the festivities. Meet our Colorful Characters.

Eye Candy

Mark — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:45:44 +0000

Experience the delirious, eye-popping kaleidoscope that is Mardi Gras — a visually intoxicating celebration and the official art form of New Orleans. Images and videos capturing everything from the magnificence of Mardi Gras Indian regalia and the boisterous revelry of offbeat marching groups to the feeding frenzy for throws.

Mardi Gras Music

Mark — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:45:25 +0000

Carnival has played a pivotal role in nurturing what is now widely recognized as New Orleans’ unique gift to the world and its most valuable cultural resource: music. Mardi Gras Music Radio is a shout-out to this incredibly rich tradition. Tune in via your desktop, tablet or mobile device!

Trivia Challenge

Mark — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:16:59 +0000

Revelers of the world… All hail! Mardi Gras trivia madness is here. Catch the excitement, and get ready to test YOUR Carnival knowledge. Virgin, Intermediate, Advanced and (for those aspiring to Summa Carnival Cum Laude) Junkie levels.

Mardi Gras Calendar

Mark — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:37:05 +0000

A day-by-day compendium of Mardi Gras-related events and activities accessible to the public: processions, artistic pursuits, revels and rituals that, collectively, comprise one of the most extraordinary extravaganzas on the planet. Sort events by genre and conveniently share listings with your friends.