How to Plan a Trip to New Orleans for Mardi Gras

The literal translation of Mardi Gras is Fat Tuesday, referring to the revelry that occurs prior to the Christian recognition of Lent, which is marked by acts of restraint. For many travelers, restraint is the last thing on their mind. New Orleans, a party town on the dullest days, goes famously nuts during Mardi Gras.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Schedule your visit around the holiday festivities. Mardi Gras is always the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. However, nightly events begin two weeks before the actual day.
2. Arrange hotel reservations far in advance. Celebrations center around Bourbon Street in the charming French Quarter. This area may be too close to the action for people who actually want to sleep at night. The Riverwalk area also has many hotel options.
3. Prepare for lots of parades. The Krewes--large groups that organize them--attempt to outdo each other every year with wild costumes, music and much exuberance.
4. Experience the famous New Orleans music. Ask a Mardi Gras veteran what to see and how to get tickets, inquire about package tours that include music tickets, or call some clubs.
5. Arrange a meeting time and place in case you get separated from your travel companions on Bourbon Street.

Tips & Warnings

• Know what you're getting into. Mardi Gras is not a refined celebration set in the tranquil charm of the old South. It's more like a citywide frat party, with all the drinking, carousing and debauchery that entails.
• Check out mardigrasnew orleans.com for scheduling and Mardi Gras history.
• Don't drive to the French Quarter during Mardi Gras. Take public transportation.
• Famous clubs include Tipitina's, House of Blues, Maple Leaf Club, Mermaid Lounge and Cafe' Brazil.