New Orleans: Mardis Gras 2006

I'd always wanted to go to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, but never got around to experience. However, I met many people from New Orleans during my time with FEMA assisting with the Hurricane Katrina and Rita aftermath (See my FEMA: Notes from the Field.) So this year, I was determined to help the city economically in a small way -- and to fulfill a long-time desire. The trip was a study in contrasts: bustling businesses next to gated storefronts; colorfully-decorated homes next to boarded-up houses with sprayed-painted X's; streets churning with people and walls plastered with "help wanted" posters. Needless to say, Tony and I had a great time, as I hope our photographs indicate! In the meantime, I'm encouraging everyone to go next year -- and look for me throwing beads from a Mardi Gras float, which is my next goal!

For a larger photograph, click on the small picture below.

Our hotel, the Bourbon Orleans, was in the heart of the French Quarter on the corner of Bourbon Street and Orleans Street, just a few blocks from the French Market. The Quarter appeared to remain relatively unscathed but we saw many boarded-up buildings and "help wanted" signs were everywhere. We hiked east and north of the Quarter to the edge of the real flooding and saw a lot more damage.

Click here for more photographs of the city

The Mardi Gras Parades were somewhat reduced in number and size and were all restricted to the same downtown route to mimimize city services. But they were still spectacular -- and Tony and I made quite a haul with the throws. I estimate that we brought back to the hotel about six tote bags full of beads and other kinds of throws. However, having secured positions on Bourbon Street balconies on two of the days, we gleefully tossed away about two bags full -- to great effect!

Click here for more photographs of the parades

Some of my DC area friends were surprised at our decision to go to New Orleans: "There's going to BE a Mardi Gras this year?" You might as well ask if there's going to be a Christmas -- Mardi Gras happens whether you're there or not! While the media reported that the numbers were down (about 350,000 compared to the million-plus of years past), the spirits were high and Bourbon street still churned with revelers. We met many locals who, to a person, thanked us for coming to Mardi Gras!

Click here for more photographs of the people.