Okay, so, I’ve been to Mardi Gras in New Orleans four times now, and let me tell you, it’s a wild ride! It’s basically one massive party, but it’s tied to the city’s French Catholic background, with a mix of Pagan and Christian stuff thrown in. We’re talking parades, parties, you name it – all leading up to Lent. I went again this year, and I figured I’d share how I made it happen, in case you’re thinking about joining the fun.
Planning and Booking
First things first, I started planning way ahead of time. Mardi Gras is crazy popular, so you gotta book flights and a place to stay super early, like months in advance, if you wanna get good prices. I found a decent deal on a flight and booked it. And a hotel is good. I snagged a room in a hotel close to the action but not right in the middle of the chaos, you know?
Packing and Preparing
Next up, packing. I packed a bunch of colorful, comfy clothes – think purple, green, and gold, the traditional Mardi Gras colors. Beads are a must. You’ll be catching tons of them at the parades, but it doesn’t hurt to bring some of your own. I also threw in a good pair of walking shoes because you’ll be on your feet a lot. And layers, man, layers. The weather can be unpredictable. Oh, and don’t forget a bag to carry all the throws you’ll catch!
Navigating the Parades
When I got there, I grabbed a parade schedule online. There are tons of parades, big and small, happening all over the city. I picked out a few that sounded cool and mapped out the routes. The big ones like Endymion and Bacchus are insane, in the best way. I got there early to stake out a good spot along the route. Trust me, it gets crowded fast.
- Get there early: Like, really early. People start setting up hours in advance.
- Find a good spot: I tried to find a spot near a bar or restaurant, so I could grab a drink or a bite without losing my place.
- Yell for throws: “Throw me something, mister!” is the classic line. Just yell, wave your arms, and make eye contact with the float riders.
Enjoying the Festivities
Besides the parades, I hit up some parties and just wandered around the French Quarter, soaking up the atmosphere. The whole city is buzzing. I made sure to try some local food, like gumbo and beignets. Delicious! And yeah, I had a few drinks, but I paced myself. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, people.
Staying Safe and Respectful
It’s easy to get carried away, but I made sure to stay safe and be respectful of the city and its people. I kept an eye on my belongings, stayed in well-lit areas at night, and didn’t do anything that would get me in trouble with the law. It’s all about having a good time, but being smart about it.
So, that’s basically how I did Mardi Gras in New Orleans this year. It was a blast, as always. If you’re thinking about going, just do your research, plan ahead, and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Laissez les bon temps rouler!
