News Summary

New Orleans Mardi Gras festivities are back on track as three colorful parades are set to roll this Sunday. After weather-related delays, the Krewe of Elks and Krewe of Crescent City will kick off the celebrations, followed by the dog-themed Mystic Krewe of Barkus parade. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure prime viewing spots as the parades follow a new route. This weekend promises vibrant floats, creativity, and unforgettable moments for locals and visitors alike.

Exciting News for Mardi Gras Fans in New Orleans!

New Orleans has always been a city that knows how to throw a party, and this weekend is no different. After a little hiccup with severe weather that pushed back parades originally scheduled for March 4, three lively Mardi Gras parades are set to roll out this Sunday, giving locals and visitors alike a reason to celebrate!

Parade Schedule: Mark Your Calendars!

The festivities kick off on Sunday morning with the Krewe of Elks truck parade starting bright and early at 9 a.m. This parade promises an exciting display with 50 individually designed truck floats, making it a sight to behold. If you’re a fan of creativity and vibrant designs, you will want to grab your spot early!

Right after the Krewe of Elks completes their procession, the Krewe of Crescent City parade will follow suit. A staple in the Mardi Gras line-up since 1947, this parade is known as the second oldest truck parade in New Orleans and features a lot of heart alongside impressive floats.

Changing Routes and Festivities

For those of you planning to catch the parades, you might need to adjust your usual viewing spots. These parades will follow an abbreviated route starting at the intersection of Tchoupitoulas Street and Napoleon Avenue. They will then turn onto St. Charles Avenue toward downtown and head north on Louisiana Avenue, wrapping up at the intersection of Toledano Street and South Claiborne Avenue. Make sure to arrive early to secure a great spot!

Let the Dogs Out with Barkus!

As if that wasn’t enough, don’t forget the Mystic Krewe of Barkus parade, going down at 2 p.m. This parade is a real treat for pet lovers as dog owners dress up their furry companions and strut their stuff through the French Quarter. This year marks the 32nd anniversary of Barkus, and the theme is absolutely adorable: “Vanity Fur: Barkus Rules the Runway.” So, if your pup has a flair for fashion, this is the parade not to miss!

From Weather to Wonder: How Parades Adapted

Many had their concerns earlier in the week due to warnings about storms and strong winds which caused safety issues, leading to shortened or even canceled parades. Although the weather dampened some of the festivities initially, tens of thousands of revelers took to the streets on Mardi Gras Day to enjoy the mild weather during the morning before the skies turned gloomy. Heavy rain and winds proved to be a challenge in the evening, but the spirit of Mardi Gras shined through!

What Lies Ahead for Future Parades

Furthermore, for those excited about the upcoming parades in Jefferson Parish, the Krewe of Argus parade, which was also postponed, is now scheduled for March 16. This coincides with the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Metairie, ensuring that the festive spirit remains alive and well in the weeks to come.

Conclusion: A Weekend of Joy Awaits!

So grab your beads, don that dazzling outfit, and get ready to immerse yourself in the wonderful world of Mardi Gras this Sunday in New Orleans. With an array of floats, costumes, and lots of happy faces, it’s a perfect opportunity to create memorable moments and celebrate the joy that this magical city has to offer!

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