Noted as the city is for jazz, Cajun and Creole cooking, and the French Quarter, Mardi Gras eclipses all as New Orleans’ most famous centerpiece. It has arguably the greatest economic and cultural impact of any event in the city.
A time of revelry, fraternity, festivity and unabashed indulgence, Mardi Gras reflects New Orleanians’ rich heritage, unleashes the joyous soul of the city and invites everyone to join in the fun. The festival embraces the city’s social and cultural variety, from the Mardi Gras Indians to the Zulu parade to the Endymion ball, and brings everyone together in the spirit of revelry.
2006 marked a monumental year for Mardi Gras in New Orleans. The 150th anniversary of Carnival was a homecoming for many and a coming out party for the city's renowned hospitality industry.
 2008 Parade Schedule - Get your ladders and coolers ready: Parading is scheduled to begin Sat. Jan. 19, 2008 with the irreverent Krewe du Vieux parade through the French Quarter and culminates with the traditional pagentry of Zulu, Rex, Elks and Crescent City on Fat Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2008!
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 Mardi Gras Fun Facts - Would you Believe?
More than 500,000 king cakes are sold each year in New Orleans between January 6 and Fat Tuesday, and another 50,000 are shipped out-of-state via overnight courier. more...
>> Mardi Gras FAQs |
 Mardi Gras for Families - A young boy is perched on his father's strong shoulders, eagerly awaiting the next float in the parade…father and son each have their arms outstretched, and as if rehearsed, in unison, both yell: "Throw Me Something Mister!" more... |
 Mardi Gras Lingo - Why purple, green and gold for Carnival colors? When is “lundi gras”? How did the word “krewe” originate? Learn the lingo and come to terms with your New Orleans vocabulary. more.. |
 Mardi Gras Indians - One of Mardi Gras’ most fascinating, deep-rooted and spectacular cultural traditions has also been of its least recognized and most misunderstood. more.. |
Hotel Rates & Reservations – Accommodations fill up fast for Mardi Gras, so book your room now!
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Origins and History of Mardi Gras 
