Wildlife of the Louisiana Swamp Lands Series: Reptiles
Deep in the murky marshes and the dark bayous of New Orleans, Louisiana’s swamp lands lie all sorts of mysterious wildlife and plant life, too. Come with us on this journey, a series look deep into the reptiles of the swamps of Louisiana.
Navigating the Bayou: The Ultimate New Orleans Swamp Tour Guide
When it comes to New Orleans, the heart and soul of the region lie not just in its jazz-filled streets and vibrant Mardi Gras parades but also in its sprawling wetlands. A swamp tour in New Orleans is the perfect escapade for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. As shadows dance upon the waters, and airboats whiz by, you’re about to journey into a world where nature sings the blues and the alligators join the chorus. The Variety of NOLA’s Wetland Adventures New Orleans offers a plethora of tour options, each unique in its offerings. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, there’s something tailor-made for you. But with choices come decisions. Which type of boat is right for your adventure? Cruising the Bayou – Choosing Your Vessel Boats are to the bayou what jazz bands are to New Orleans – essential. Once you’ve chosen your vessel, it’s time to prepare for the unique experiences each tour has to offer. Be it the mystery of the marsh or the allure of the alligators, here’s what awaits. What to Expect on Your Wetland Journey Every nook and cranny of the bayou has its story, waiting to be told. Now that you’ve got a glimpse of what’s in store, let’s address some burning questions. FAQ Like the crescendo in a beautiful jazz piece, a trip to New Orleans isn’t complete without a foray into its wetlands. So, take the plunge, soak in the sights, and let the bayou serenade you.
New Orleans Airboat Tours
New Orleans Airboat Tours What Is An Airboat? An airboat is a flat-bottomed watercraft that is propelled by a caged aircraft-type propeller and powered by an automotive engine. Airboats can operate in water as shallow as a few inches, as there are no parts under the water level. Alexander Graham Bell invented the first airboat in Nova Scotia, Canada in 1905. The British Army used airboats in World War 1 in the Mesopotamian Campaign, but besides that airboats didn’t become widely used by civilians until the 1930s. Nowadays, airboats are typically used for fishing, hunting, and ecotourism. Ecotourism is tourism directed towards natural environments to observe wildlife and to support conservation efforts. Airboats are propelled by a large caged in fan that propels air about 200 mph from the back of the boat. The captain of the airboat can steer the boat left or right by adjusting a stick on his left side that is connected to a rudder which changes the direction of the airflow behind the boat. Airboats have no working parts under the water level which allows them to glide along the shallow water. These swamp boats were designed to go where you couldn’t otherwise get to by car or foot. At Bayou Swamp Tours, we have different sized airboats to accommodate different sized groups. Our smaller airboats can hold between 6 and 10 passengers, while the larger airboats hold between 13 and 30 passengers. What To Expect On An Airboat Tour in New Orleans During an airboat tour in New Orleans, Louisiana, you could expect the captain to show off his airboat skills by gliding through the shallow marshes and swamps. When the airboat is travelling at high speeds we do recommend wearing ear protection which will be provided by Bayou Swamp Tours as the sound of the propeller is very loud. You will not need to wear the ear protection the whole time though, as throughout the airboat tour your captain will slow down and make stops to point out different flora and fauna, wildlife, and give you and your group some history lessons about the swamp and bayou. During the tour you will go through the swamps, marsh, and through trees covered with Spanish moss. You will see a number of different animals including hawks, herons, egrets, and occasionally bald eagles. Don’t worry about where you are seated on the boat, as the seats are typically set up as stadium seating, so you have full visibility no matter where you are seated. During your airboat tour, you can expect the captain to bring you to areas on the bayou where the alligators are known to live. Don’t worry, the alligators are not looking to hurt you, they are accustomed to people and are looking to be fed! Our captains will usually have marshmallows and chicken on the boat to feed the alligators and give you a chance to snap some pictures. During some of our tours you might have the chance to hold a baby alligator. We hope you enjoy your airboat tour and make sure you visit us again for another airboat tour next time you’re in New Orleans!
Bayou vs. Swamp – What’s the Difference?
Planning your first trip to New Orleans? You might be curious about the famed bayous and swamps of this city. But, Bayou vs. Swamp, What is the Difference? We will help you understand it. There’s a good chance if you’re visiting New Orleans for the first time, you might not be familiar with precisely what a bayou or a swamp is. And what activities can you do on a bayou or a swamp? Bayou Swamp Tours has just the answer you are seeking. Bayou vs. swamp, we’ll tell you the difference. What is a Bayou? The Mississippi River Delta is where rivers empty their waters and sediment into the Gulf of Mexico. That is where you find the bayous and swamplands. A bayou is a body of water typically found in a flat, low-lying area, and can either be an extremely slow-moving stream or river, or a marshy lake, or wetland. Bayous are most commonly found in the Gulf Coast region of the southern United States, in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas. The Louisiana bayou is more than just a place to fish, hunt, and explore. This bayou serves as a natural barrier between the inland areas and natural disasters. It protects the inland cities from storm surges when hurricanes and tropical storms roll in. What Can You Do In the Bayous? New Orleans is surrounded by swampland, and the bayou in Louisiana is only a short drive away. One of the more popular activities to do is take an airboat tour through the bayou’s river and a slow-moving small stream. Airboats are powered by giant fans, have flat bottoms, and are designed to operate in water as shallow as a few inches. They are perfect for navigating the narrow waterways that bigger boats wouldn’t be able to explore. Bayou Swamp Tours is ready to help you explore. There is a lot to see on the bayou, including different types of trees with Spanish moss dangling and wildlife. Fun fact, the Spanish moss is neither moss, nor is it from Spain. Spanish moss got its name by French explorers who were reminded of the Spanish conquistadors’ long beards when they first saw it. Many kinds of wildlife take advantage of Spanish moss. Birds make nests out of it, and spiders and frogs live in it. During an airboat tour through the swamps and bayou, you can expect to see those, plus alligators, snakes, wild boar, and many different species of birds. What is a Swamp? So, still wondering what a bayou vs, swamp is? A swamp is an area of land saturated with water at all times. The word marsh is often used for the swamp. These areas are covered in cypress swamp trees and hardwood swamp trees, which grow in the water. These places cannot be called land or water altogether, and the wildlife in them can adapt to both conditions. The swamps of New Orleans, Louisiana are full of the lush plant life, trees, and fantastic wildlife. Spanish moss gives the place its iconic eerie look. However, the swamps created by the Mississippi River Delta are disappearing at an alarming rate. Due to both natural and human-made forces, Louisiana loses swampland by one football field per hour. Swamp and Bayou tours help create awareness and spread the affection for New Orleans natural habitats. Bayou vs. Swamp… Feature Bayou Swamp Definition A slow-moving or stagnant body of water, often an offshoot of a river or lake. A wetland that is saturated with water and dominated by woody plants and trees. Water Flow Characterized by slow-moving, meandering waters. Can be shallow. Often has standing water, can be seasonally flooded. Water is usually stagnant. Ecosystem Supports fish, amphibians, birds, and aquatic plants. Rich in biodiversity with birds, amphibians, reptiles, and dense tree/plant growth. Geographical Location Common in the southeastern United States, especially in Louisiana and Texas. Found worldwide, with famous examples in the Florida Everglades and the southern U.S. Cultural Significance Strongly associated with Cajun culture in Louisiana. Often featured in folklore and literature; significant in local economies and conservation. Typical Environment Found in flat, low-lying areas, can be freshwater or saltwater. Saturated with freshwater, characterized by thick mud and silt. Water Characteristics May be either freshwater or saltwater. Usually freshwater. Of course, if you’ve decided to take a bayou tour in New Orleans, you’re hoping to see some alligators. You don’t have to worry about alligators attacking you on your swamp tour, as alligators are less aggressive than crocodiles and will typically escape if approached by humans. Alligators are inherently afraid of humans, but they will lose some of that fear with regular contact. There is no doubt that a trip to New Orleans, Louisiana is incomplete without experiencing a bit of Cajun culture and the nature and wildlife in the nearby bayous and swamps. Several tour operators traverse the swampy areas for a chance to spot wild boars, gators, egrets, and more. Choose from a fast-paced airboat tour or a slower educational cruise as you lurk in the murky waters. Whatever floats your boat, we hope you have a fantastic time with the best airboat tour in New Orleans, Bayou Swamp Tours in New Orleans.
Helpful New Orleans Mardi Gras FAQs
Mardi Gras season begins every year in early January. The festival has been a time-honored tradition in New Orleans for generations. If you’re considering traveling to the city for Mardi Gras, give yourself some time to research all of the different activities and events that will be going on. Also, figure out where you would like to stay during your visit. Are you traveling solo, as a couple, or with the entire family? Check out Mardi Gras New Orleans Guide 2024 for loads of timesaving tips and tricks. Planning a trip can be stressful at times, so here are some helpful Mardi Gras FAQs to get you started. 1 – Can I Bring My Family To Mardi Gras? Yes, Mardi Gras is a family-friendly celebration. However, it is advisable to stay away from crowded party locations, such as Bourbon Street. Read more about Best Ways for Families To Celebrate Mardi Gras. 2 – LGBTQ Events At Mardi Gras? New Orleans is known for being an LGBTQ friendly destination. Many openly gay Krewes participate in different Mardi Gras festivities. Check out LGBTQ Mardi Gras 2020 for information about the famous carnival balls. 3 – Where To Stay? There are many hotels, B&Bs, Airbnbs, and Hostels located around the city of New Orleans. If you’re traveling solo, consider staying in a hostel and meet others who are also traveling alone. Check out the City House Hostel New Orleans located right around the corner from Bourbon Street. The hostel offers both shared and private dorms. For couples, there are plenty of charming B&Bs to book a stay. Check out the Grand Victorian Bed & Breakfast inside a building dating back to the mid-19th-century and located only two miles away from the French Quarter. It’s an excellent option for anyone wanting to have easy access to different parts of New Orleans. Families who are attending Mardi Gras should choose accommodations away from the popular party areas. Consider staying somewhere outside of the French Quarter and book a room at the historic Columns Hotel conveniently located along St. Charles Avenue; it’s the perfect choice for families. Check out Where To Stay During Mardi Gras 2020 for more information. 4 – How To Get Around Town? Moving around New Orleans during Mardi Gras can be a challenge. Most visitors choose to explore the city on foot. Late at night, it’s best to use a taxi or ride-sharing. Note: Uber is available throughout the city. 5 – Where To Eat? New Orleans is a haven for good food. During Mardi Gras, look out for food trucks and pop-up food stands because the city becomes so busy this is your best bet for finding a quick bite to eat. Read Where To Find Food During Mardi Gras for some helpful tips.
How To Plan A Romantic Getaway In New Orleans
If you’re searching for the perfect romantic getaway, look no further than New Orleans. The city is a great location for quick getaways because there is some much to do. Everything from food, drinks, tours, and wildlife are all at your disposal. When planning your getaway, you’ll want to think about a few details, such as when to go, accommodation, dining, and activities. There’s no time like the present to head to New Orleans because this city truly is a year-round hotspot. Perhaps, you and your partner want to experience one of the many festivals held throughout the year (Mardi Gras!). Or maybe you’re just looking for a relaxing trip away. The time to start planning is now! Here is a quick guide to help you plan a romantic getaway in New Orleans. Key Takeaways Why choose New Orleans for a romantic getaway? New Orleans is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. With its vibrant culture, rich history, and charming atmosphere, the city offers a unique and unforgettable experience for couples. Whether you’re strolling hand in hand through the historic French Quarter, enjoying a romantic carriage ride, or savoring the sounds of live jazz music, New Orleans has something for every couple seeking a romantic escape. If you’re a food lover, you’ll be delighted by the city’s culinary scene. From fine dining restaurants to cozy cafes and bistros, New Orleans offers a wide range of options to satisfy your taste buds. Don’t miss the chance to try some of the must-try local dishes, such as gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets. To make your stay even more special, consider booking a luxury hotel, a charming bed and breakfast, or a romantic Airbnb rental. These accommodations provide the perfect setting for a romantic retreat, with their elegant decor, cozy ambiance, and personalized service. In summary, New Orleans is a city that exudes romance and offers a plethora of experiences for couples. Whether you’re exploring its historic sites, indulging in its delicious cuisine, or simply enjoying each other’s company, New Orleans is sure to create lasting memories for you and your loved one. Best time to visit New Orleans The best time to visit New Orleans is during the spring months of March, April, and May. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to the 80s Fahrenheit. This is also the time when the city hosts several festivals, including the famous New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Spring is a great time to explore the city’s vibrant culture, enjoy outdoor activities, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. If you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, consider visiting in the fall months of September, October, and November. The weather is still warm, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. Fall is also the time when the city celebrates Halloween and Thanksgiving, offering unique events and festivities. Pro tip: Keep in mind that New Orleans can get quite hot and humid during the summer months, with temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. If you plan to visit during this time, make sure to stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned spaces. Getting to New Orleans When planning your romantic getaway to New Orleans, it’s important to consider the best way to get there. New Orleans is easily accessible by air, with Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport serving as the main gateway to the city. There are numerous direct flights from major cities across the United States, making it convenient for travelers. If you prefer a more scenic route, you can also consider traveling by train. Amtrak offers service to New Orleans, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way. Once you arrive in New Orleans, there are several transportation options available to explore the city. The most iconic way to get around is by taking a ride on one of the historic streetcars. These charming streetcars will take you through the city’s neighborhoods, including the famous French Quarter. Whether you choose to fly or take a train, getting to New Orleans is the first step in creating a memorable and romantic getaway. Accommodations Luxury hotels in New Orleans When it comes to luxury accommodations in New Orleans, there are several options that will make your romantic getaway truly special. The Ritz-Carlton is a renowned hotel that offers elegant rooms and impeccable service. Another top choice is The Roosevelt New Orleans, which combines historic charm with modern amenities. For a unique experience, consider staying at The Pontchartrain Hotel, known for its stylish decor and rooftop bar. If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, The Columns Hotel is a charming bed and breakfast located in the Garden District. This historic mansion offers cozy rooms and a peaceful atmosphere. The Green House Inn is another great option, offering comfortable accommodations and a relaxing courtyard. For those who prefer the convenience of a rental, there are plenty of romantic Airbnb options in New Orleans. From cozy apartments in the French Quarter to charming cottages in the Marigny, you’ll find the perfect home away from home for your romantic getaway. Charming bed and breakfasts If you’re looking for a cozy and intimate accommodation option, consider staying at one of the charming bed and breakfasts in New Orleans. These quaint establishments offer a unique and personalized experience for couples. Indulge in a romantic getaway surrounded by the city’s historic charm and warm hospitality. For those seeking a taste of the city’s rich history, the Maison Dupuy is a top choice. This elegant bed and breakfast is located in the heart of the French Quarter and offers luxurious rooms with antique furnishings. Wake up to a delicious breakfast served in the charming courtyard. If you prefer a more modern and eclectic vibe, check out the Melrose Mansion. This boutique bed and breakfast features stylish rooms with contemporary decor and amenities. Relax in the lush courtyard or take a dip in the pool for a truly rejuvenating experience. Whether you choose a historic or contemporary bed and breakfast, you’re sure to create lasting memories in the cozy and romantic atmosphere
King Cake, Mardi Gras’s Favorite Treat
Everyone should visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras at least once, whether you travel here solo, with a partner, or the entire family, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. Don’t stress trying to figure out all the details, check out Your Guide to Mardi Gras 2020 for loads of tips and tricks. One of the many must-do’s of Mardi Gras is eating all of the delicious native cuisines and enjoying some drinks along the way. Many visitors love grabbing some food and a cocktail while watching the festive parades along St. Charles Ave. One famous treat that you’ll bound to come across during the Mardi Gras festivities is King Cake. Read on to learn some facts about this delicious traditional New Orleans treat. What Is a Mardi Gras King Cake? The best way to describe this traditional Mardi Gras food, king cake is that it is a mix of cinnamon roll and coffee cake. On top, the cake smothered with white icing and colorful candies (purple, gold, green). Hidden in the middle of each cake is a plastic toy. Throughout New Orleans, it’s common to find some slight variations in king cake recipes. Some cake recipes call for cream cheese filling while others call for fruit filling. Try a few different styles and see which method you enjoy most! You can also find packaged king cake in the local food stores, so feel free to bring some home as souvenirs. History of King Cake The dessert is referred to as king cake because it’s symbolic of the biblical story about three wise men who visited baby Jesus after his birth. Also, the plastic toy hidden in the middle of each cake is a baby that represents a newborn Jesus. Where Can I Find King Cake During Mardi Gras? Traditionally, king cake is only available around the Mardi Gras Season. Sometimes you can start to find it in restaurants and food stores in as early as December. You can purchase king cake in many different bakeries, cafés, restaurants, and food stores scattered throughout New Orleans. Check out La Boulangerie located in the Garden District for a delicious take on king cake. Other Tasty New Orleans Treats While you’re at it, try some other tasty treats found in New Orleans. Beignets date back to the French colonists and is a deep-fried pastry, similar to a doughnut just without a hole. This treat, topped with powder sugar, is best enjoyed hot and goes great with coffee. Other familiar treats include banana fosters and snowballs.
5 Unique NOLA Bachelor Party Ideas
Planning a fun bachelor party doesn’t have to be stressful. New Orleans is a fantastic destination for all parties, no matter the time of year. Experience the famous Mardi Gras celebrations, which begin in early January. Then take in the local music scene by visiting one of our many jazz clubs. Take a break from the crowds and step outside the city to explore the local bayous by airboat. There are so many possibilities for celebrating! Here is a list of 5 unique bachelor party ideas. 1- Mardi Gras For the ultimate bachelor party experience, consider coming to New Orleans during the Mardi Gras season. The city will be busier than other times of the year, but you’re bound to have a good time. Whether you want to live it up on Bourbon Street or bar-hop along St. Charles Ave while watching the parades, everyone in the group will have a good time. Check out Your Guide To Mardi Gras 2020 for helpful planning tips. 2- Experience NOLA Jazz The streets of New Orleans come to life with jazz music. Since its birth, NOLA jazz has evolved through the generations. Stop by one of the many clubs offering live music every night of the week. Walk around the French Quarter, and you’ll be bound to find a few clubs offering music and good drinks. Take a moment to read more about the rich history of jazz music in New Orleans. 3- Bayou Swamp Tour The extensive bayous are home to different species of animals and plants, along with being rich in history and offering some beautiful scenery. Take a break from the city and go on an airboat tour along the bayou. The knowledgeable staff will provide informative insights into the wildlife and history of the area. Learn more about booking a swamp tour today! 4- NOLA Brew Bus The NOLA Brew Bus Tour is a four-hour ride to the best breweries across the city. At each brewery, you’ll receive a full pint of beer and have the chance to sample others on tap. The bus tour is also a unique way to explore the different neighborhoods. 5- NOLA Motorsport Park Get behind the wheel of a Ferrari 458 Italia and drive along the 1.8-mile racetrack. There are various cars you can test out, plus a go-kart track. The most massive go-kart track in the country! There are special packages available for large parties.
Top 4 Traditional NOLA Dishes You Must Try
The Best New Orleans Food the Big Easy Has to Offer The Big Easy, with its diverse mixture of people, has inspired some fantastic cuisine. Settlers to the region figured out how to live off the land and utilize all available resources to make their food. For example, the Louisiana Bayous are home to many different types of vegetation and wildlife that have been consumed by New Orleanians for years. When you’re visiting New Orleans, whether, for Mardi Gras or a summer festival, there are a few traditional dishes that everyone should try at least once. The city is the perfect foodie getaway at any time of year. Here is a brief list of the top 7 traditional New Orleans cuisines every visitor should order. Which one first? We’ll let you decide! 1- Jambalaya Jambalaya dates back to the Spanish colonists and is a take on traditional paella. Jambalaya is a mix of rice, vegetables, meat, or seafood, depending on your food preference, and an assortment of different spices thrown into the mix. The best part about this dish is that the taste and recipe can vary depending on the New Orleans section. Try some delicious jambalaya at Jacques-Imo’s Café located in the Garden District of New Orleans. 2 – Crawfish Crayfish, commonly referred to in New Orleans as Crawfish, has been a staple food for many generations. These small crustaceans are so popular that you can find them added to many different dishes. If your palette is more on the fancy side, give crawfish etouffee a try. This French-inspired dish is similar to gumbo; however, it is traditionally served over rice. If you prefer to keep it simple, grab a bucket of steamed crawfish for a mouthwatering meal. Just make sure you have plenty of melted butter nearby. 3 – Gumbo Don’t be surprised if you find gumbo listed on many menus around New Orleans. This traditional stew can be traced back to both French and West African food origins. The ingredients can vary, and you’ll find lots of different recipes. However, the gumbo typically calls for various vegetables, such as onions, celery, and peppers. Along with either sausage, chicken, or seafood (a personal favorite), you must get that piece of french bread on the side. It’s hard to get bored with gumbo with so much variety, plus it’s perfect for enjoying on a winter day. Stop by the best restaurant in New Orleans for gumbo, the Gumbo Shop conveniently located in the French Quarter for a tasty bowl of gumbo. 4 – King Cake Don’t forget to try a king cake, which is traditionally available during Mardi Gras. If you decide to come out for Mardi Gras, you’re bound to come across king cake. The cake is symbolic of the biblical story about three wise men who visited baby Jesus shortly after his birth. King cakes are a mix of cinnamon roll and coffee cake topped with colorful icing on top. There is a plastic baby toy hidden in each cake to represent baby Jesus, so don’t eat too fast. 5- Red Beans and Rice In New Orleans, creamy and comforting red beans and rice is served on Monday. The dish is made with slow-cooked dried Camellia red beans and spiked with ham hock and spicy sausage. For almost 40 years, Riccobono’s Peppermill has been observing the Monday tradition, but you can order it any other day of the week too. 6- Beignets The first thing most tourists want to eat when in New Orleans is a beignet from Cafe du Monde, and why not? They are a fantastic square donut fried and covered with powdered sugar. Stop by the French Quarter and Cafe du Monde, get a beignet and coffee with chicory, and you are on your way to a real New Orleans day. 7- The Po-Boy Many of the restaurants of New Orleans offer the iconic Po-Boy. It is a gut-filling overstuffed sandwich between to pieces of french bread. One of the best you can get in New Orleans happens to be at Bears PoBoy’s at Gennaro’s. Their stand out po-boy is the roast beef. Other popular flavors are the pork po-boy, oyster po-boy, the shrimp and lobster po-boys, and many more. So Much Good Food With so many delights to feast upon, the restaurants in New Orleans offer the best of Cajun and Creole traditional dishes. The French Quarter has long boasted the best of everything from the above delicacies to the olive salad, bananas foster, pralines, and more. Whether it is your first trip to the French Quarter or choose to go out to one of the many yummy restaurants New Orleans has to offer, the food there is a massive part of the experience. So, come on down to a New Orleans restaurant or two. Pick the restaurant that has the food you want to try first, top it off with bananas foster with a side of ice cream, and you’ll get to experience one of the best meals ever… New Orleans style.
Top 5 Must-Do’s At Mardi Gras 2020
Don’t stress trying to create the perfect itinerary for Mardi Gras in New Orleans. This list will provide you with the top things you must do in New Orleans while attending the festival. Remember, there is so much to do in New Orleans during Mardi Gras and the previous post provided lots of information for planning your trip. So, you’re already off to a great start! To make it even easier here is a list of the top 5 must-do’s at Mardi Gras 2020. 1-Bar-Hopping Along St. Charles Ave Every year parades are held throughout the city. One of the best parade routes is along St. Charles Ave between Napoleon and Canal Street. Here you will find a mixture of people young and old hanging out watching the different floats roll by. There are plenty of bars to pop in and grab a drink. The perfect area for bar-hopping. Don’t forget to taste some delicious local cuisine. From margaritas to local craft beer there is sure to be something for everyone in your group. 2-Dress Up In A Crazy Costume Everyone dresses up for Mardi Gras. Go ahead and wear something crazy. Don’t have any costumes in your closet? No worries, stop by one of New Orleans many costumes and mask shops to get yourself sorted. There are shops located in the French Quarter and Garden District, including Fifi Mahony’s and Bootsy’s Funrock’n. If you’re not into wearing crazy outfits you can opt for dressing in the official colors of Mardi Gras green, gold, and purple. 3-Check Out The Different Krewes The Krewes play a very important role during Mardi Mardi. They are in many ways the ring leaders of the celebrations. If you have the opportunity to be invited to a Krewe Carnival Ball, go. It may be a once in a lifetime experience. If you are not lucky enough to get a personal invite, head over to the Endymion Extravaganza. The Carnival Ball is open to the public all you have to do is buy a ticket. For animal lovers go watch the parade of dogs, hosted by the Mystick Krewe of Barkus. Yes, you may have a chance to meet some of the pups! 4-Try Catching Beads and doubloons during throws While watching the parades keep an eye out for throws. This is when Krewes throw items out to the spectators. Some of the items you can catch include colorful beads, doubloons, or decorative cups, and much more. You may even have a chance to catch a rare item such as Zulu coconuts. Bring home a piece of Mardi Gras! 5-Mardi Gras History Finally, it’s important to take a moment to learn about the history and culture of the festival. Stop by one of the many museums such as Mardi Gras World. Or take one of the Mardi Gras guided tours. This is a good option for anyone visiting New Orleans outside of Mardi Gras.
