Mardi Gras Unmasked's mission is to showcase the true spirit of Mardi Gras as expressed through a remarkable spectrum of homegrown customs and traditions. We strive to stimulate and deepen the public's appreciation of New Orleans Mardi Gras as a multifaceted cultural attraction, in an online environment that not only is fun, engaging and free of commercial clutter, but also compatible with tablet computers and mobile devices.
Mardi Gras Calendar
Carnival 101
Colorful Characters
Eye Candy
Local Color and Customs
Mardi Gras Music
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? 
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. 
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20
3 p.m.
Riverwalk Marketplace presents live music and the arrival of Rex, king of Carnival at Spanish Plaza (near the foot of Poydras St.). At 6 p.m., Rex and his entourage arrive by Coast Guard cutter. Whereupon, in accordance with tradition, the Monarch of Merriment reads a proclamation declaring Mardi Gras to be a day of fun and frivolity. Mayor Mitch Landrieu then offers his official endorsement, handing over nominal control of the city to his majesty for Mardi Gras. Rex, along with the captain of the Rex Organization, will then greet royalty of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, King Elroy James and Queen Tanyanika Phillips, M.D., and exchange commemorative gifts. Finally, after a countdown, Rex and the mayor push down on a giant faux plunger; as foghorns wail, fireworks fill the sky over the river. Performance schedule as follows:
3:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. John “Papa” Gros & the Krewe du Karnival
4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. Shamarr Allen & the Underdawgs
6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. The Topcats
