Fat Tuesday in New Orleans: Floats, masks, trinkets and more

They’re braving the cold and holding a street parade at 7 p.m.

The weather was a little brisk, but handsome and Orange Beach Mayor, Tony Kennon said he expected up to 30,000 folks to turn out.

As you walk through the French Quarter during this year’s parade season, the relentless efforts officials have made to keep Mardi Gras 2016 the safest and securest yet become immediately apparent. But don’t be mistaken. Their costumes are meant to represent the dead and they bring a serious message, reminding people of their mortality and the need to live a productive and good life. “Lots of glitter, hot glue, blisters, blood, sweat and tears”, said another.

“Carnival celebrations in Europe pre-date Christianity, but like so many other pagan festivals, the church found a way to incorporate them into the religious calendar”, she says.

“What do you like about Mardi Gras? the colorful beads and candy”.

We know what you’re thinking on this fine Lenten morning: What to do with all these new Mardi Gras beads?

“This is our first year”. One woman dressed as a jellyfish while others dressed as dragons.

“I’ve celebrated Mardi Gras around the world and I think Lafayette is my favorite”, Roauth said.

The good times weren’t had just by the parade-goers.

The floats and riders captured alot of attention.

“I’m here to catch a few chickens and have some fun”, Brown said. I throw as hard as I can.

“This is a pun about the construction Uptown and how miserable it is to be Uptown”, one of them stated.