While Mardi Gras is going on all around the state, the biggest celebrations are happening in New Orleans. If you're planning to come down for the party---we've got you covered. Mardi Gras has changed a lot since Katrina, and there have been a huge number of new marching krewes and parades to pop up on the scene in the past few years. Here's your look at some of the most amazing and astounding sights for Carnival in New Orleans---keep your eyes peeled!
1. Mardi Gras Indians
There are various krewes and groups of Mardi Gras Indians that grace New Orleans with their presence throughout the year, but there’s no doubt that the magic is at its height on Mardi Gras Day.
You just have to hope you’re in the right place at the right time—because it is simply breathtaking.
2. 610 Stompers
This all-male dancing club started 2009, when the Saints won the superbowl and they marched in the Lomdbardi Gras Superbowl parade.
Since then, the krewe has literally taken the nation by storm, being featured on shows such as Ellen and the Tonight Show, as well as performing in the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade.
3. The Marching 100
This legendary St. Augustine high school marching band commands the streets when it passes by, creating the soundtrack to the greatest free show on earth.
4. Camel Toe Lady Steppers
While there are a big number of lady dance marching krewes out there, Camel Toe stands out for their commitment to their costumes and their sassy spirit that exudes from them every time they walk.
5. Chewbacchus
Another newbie on the parading scene, this krewe has grown faster and stronger than perhaps any other in recent years. With their elaborate costumes and exciting throws, this krewe takes the concept of Revenge of the Nerds to a whole new level.
6. Red Beans Parade
Now in its eighth year, this Lundi Gras downtown New Orleans parade gathers intricate costume makers for a celebration of the wonderful decorative qualities of Red Beans (and other kinds of beans.)
The amazing detail people get into when participating in this parade is just incredible.
7. The Krewe of Rolling Elvi
Since 2003, this krewe of elvis impersonators has brought a smile to parade goer’s faces through their elvis tributes and trademark ‘wheels’. The Krewe is known for getting around on anything that can move on the streets with wheels—I’ve even seen a motorized La-Z-Boy!
8. North Side Skull & Bone Gang
To catch this old and mysterious krewe, you need to wake up before the sun in the Treme neighborhood, as they knock on people’s doors bringing tidings of life and death.
9. ‘tit Rex
Short for Petit Rex, this marching krewe specializes in all things miniature. Crowds gather to catch a glimpse in their signature tiny floats pulled by a string.
10. Baby Doll Ladies
This krewe can trace its roots back to 1912, when the traditional dance and masking of African-American women was downright revolutionary. You can catch their amazing dancing and styles on Mardi Gras day.
Have you seen any of these krewes or parades? Which ones are your favorites? Let us know what you love about Mardi Gras in the comments below!
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