The day before Ash Wednesday marks a day of revelry and gluttonous behaviors, also known as Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Tourism in New Orleans generates $5 billion dollars for the city, according to New Orleans Convention & Visitor's Bureau recent report called Tourism Matters.
After walking through the infamous areas of Bourbon Street and the French Quarters, take a look at a list of things to do in New Orleans on Mardi Gras.
1. Drink a hurricane.
This libation is a must-try alcoholic drink. Tasting like fruit punch, first-timers should take it easy drinking this lascivious alcohol. It goes down too fast. Veterans will brag the number of quantities through the night. Pat O'Briens created this desired libation but street vendors also sell this mixed cocktail.
2. Watch a parade.
For beginners, the parade is an amazing pageantry of community spirit among the floats and those involved with building the float with colorful hues of purples, greens and yellows. The veteran visitor will head over to reserve a spot for the best viewing areas and optimal places to catch the desired beads.
3. Eat street food.
New Orleans showcases culinary delights throughout its restaurants. Of course, food carts, truck stops and hole-in-the-wall vendors will sell their specialties such as red beans & rice, okra gumbo, shrimp po'boys and banana fosters. Prices will range from $3 to $8 for a delicious sampling of any of these entrees.
Tip 1: Mardi Gras packs in the crowds. Try alternative travel options such as flying halfway, then driving the rest of the way.
Tip 2: High prices does not deter the hard-core fans of Mardi Gras.
Tip 3: Check out the lesser-known festivals of New Orleans such as the Jazz Festival, showcased during spring. It will provide a different perspective of this amazing city.
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