Mr. Mardi Gras says have fun but "Stay Safe"
1. Pick your parade spot wisely
-You don’t want to miss the fun and ability to catch some great throws! Be sure to get to the parade routes EARLY to not only catch a beautiful Muses shoe, but to see the beautiful floats up close and personal! Remember, the sound of sirens means a parade is STARTING and the firetrucks means the parade is OVER. (stay in eyesight of a port-o-potty)
2. Have a “what if” plan
-It wouldn’t be Mardi Gras if no one got lost. Write your last name/phone number on your child's arm or create an ID badge with necessary information. Designate a meet-up location in the event you get separated, and instruct them to go to the police if they forget where you agreed to meet. Another thing, teach your children not to get in the way of floats and marching bands.
3. Bring a backpack
-Parades tend to run behind schedule, so be prepared for some stalling. Come prepared with snacks, water, juice boxes, wet wipes, ponchos, and a mini first aid kit! You also can fit some awesome throws in your backpack!
4. Dress for success
-Want to catch lots of throws? WEAR AN AMAZING COSTUME-especially on Fat Tuesday. Families come characters such as; 101 Dalmatians, Disney Princesses, Wizard of Oz and more. You can never go wrong with wearing traditional purple, green, and gold rugby shirts and hairbows! Also, be sure everyone’s wearing closed-toe shoes, and pack layers, DON’T FORGET YOUR FACE MASK!
5. Give your children a history lesson
-Mardi Gras is more than parading and eating king cake! Take a visit to Mardi Gras World to see how floats are made and explore the Carnival exhibit at The Presbytere on Jackson Square.
I hope these tips can help you plan for the upcoming Carnival 2022 Season. As always be safe, diligent, and laissez le bon temps rouler.-
Mr. Rodney, The King of Mardi Gras
Click the blue box below for an important message from the Library!
"I truly cannot wait to hear the sweet sounds of revelers yelling, "Throw me something, mister!" this Carnival Season. Mardi Gras is filled with laughter, joy, and a sense of community.
For generations, families have been oohing and aahing at Mardi Gras royalty,
pointing out Big Shot and the Boeuf Gras to the smaller ones, bringing their ladders to St. Charles Ave, and dancing with the soundful marching bands.
Enjoy this guide to a fun, yet safe Mardi Gras 2022."