ALL ABOUT MARDI GRAS

Get your Mardi Gras facts and history here

Did you know that Chinese workers think beads are considered real jewelry in the United States? According to their bosses they'd be terribly hurt to find out otherwise.  Full story »

Whether you're new to town or a native -- be sure you brush up on what's rude when it comes to being a Carnival party goer.  Full story »

Carnival is rich in history, tradition and memories according to most New Orleanians.  Full story »

10 things you may not know about the Social Aid and Pleasure Club.  Full story »

Carnival, the show goes on regardless of what the country might be experiencing politically or economically. Full story »

With only 41 days and a few hours remaining, it's time to get in the mood Full story »

Carnival season's favorite treat officially hits the shelves tomorrow Full story »

Here are the future dates for Fat Tuesday through 2021. • February 24, 2009 • February 16, 2010 • March 8, 2011 • February 21, 2012 • February 12, 2013 • March 4, 2014 • February 17, 2015 • February 9, 2016 • February 28, 2017 • February 13, 2018 • March 5, 2019 • February 25, 2020 • February... Full story »

Mastering the fine art of doing Mardi Gras with kids can lead to a tear-free, giggle-filled day.  Full story »

These Carnival basics are offered to first-timers, or as a brush-up for repeat revelers.  Full story »

On Sunday, New Orleanians experience one of the city's most colorful and unique celebrations when the Downtown Mardi Gras Indian parade runs its traditional route from Bayou St. John to Hunter's Field. The annual parade, assembled by the Tambourine and Fan organization, is one of two "Super Sunday" parades; the other, organized by the Mardi Gras Indian Council featuring Uptown... Full story »

You say you use it to paint the house or change a light bulb? Hah! Shows what you know. In a town where it rains beads, pours doubloons and showers trinkets, there's just one reason to climb a ladder at this time of year: to tower above ground-level parade-goers and catch as much junk as their bags and pockets... Full story »

The annual Bourbon Street Awards Show starts about 2 p.m. on Mardi Gras in front of the Rawhide Bar at the corner of Burgundy and St. Ann streets in the French Quarter. Here's the real story behind the most famous drag-queen contest in America.  Full story »

The Carnival ball is a formal party given by a krewe for its members and their guests. It consists of a royal court with king and queen, dukes and duchesses and the like, who are presented in lavish costumes to an audience of invited guests. The more traditional balls present tableaux, which are staged pageants that depict stories, usually from... Full story »