While most of the nation is winding down after the holidays, New Orleans is ramping it up. The 2016 Mardi Gras season is officially under way.
With music from the Stooges Brass Band, leading the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club and a dancing Mayor Mitch Landrieu, Mardi Gras 2016 begins. The kickoff was held at Mardi Gras World, with samples of throws from 34 parade organizations set up around the stage, surrounded by floats that appeared ready to roll.
Landrieu noted the importance of the month-long party, and hailed local efforts.
“Mardi Gras is the best in New Orleans," Landrieu said. "I know they try to celebrate it in other places in the world, but they just don’t get it right, like we do, right? We together on that?”
Last year’s King of Rex, Christy Brown, had a preview of what to expect in this year’s parade.
“The 2016 Rex parade marks the 135th parade in our organization’s 144-year history," said Brown. "Our theme is royal gardens – horti regis – portraying famous gardens from around the world.”
It is a short Carnival season this year. Fat Tuesday is February 9.