The signature event for the City of New Orleans, LA is Mardi Gras; probably the ideal economic event for any city, though something only Brazil can also lay claim on. And people all over the world know of New Orleans for this festive happening more so than anything else.
Some may think of this carnival time as too crowded and perhaps too overwhelming with those engaging in the heavy consumption of alcohol. They’d be right in some perspective. However, in response, Mardi Gras is among the greatest of free shows on earth.
For the better part of two weeks, there are visitors from literally every part of the globe. The city operates in a constancy of a festive mood, inclusive of native locals. In fact, prior to Hurricane Katrina, surrounding public celebrations took place in every nook and cranny of this Crescent City, regardless of religion, race, societal status, richness or poorness, young or old, educated or not.
Clearly, there are many aspects to Mardi Gras. Most importantly, it’s about soaking into an atmosphere where strangers meet, hug, converse, dance in the streets, laugh, jam to the entertainment of marching bands, take pictures, drink, eat, sing, kiss, and so forth.
Furthermore, the economics goes far beyond an increase of alcohol sales. There are matters of costumes, floats, trinkets, formal balls, music, King Cakes, hall rentals, transportation needs, parties, and the like. One might call it additional business on a massive scale, along the lines of multiple college bowl games all at once. The basis is simply a creation of an atmosphere where folks can have a good time.
While it would be a tremendous financial bonanza for any municipality in the US, it belongs squarely to New Orleans. Take note world, merriment like this generates commerce.
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