NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Mardi Gras Day celebrations rolled on as planned on March 4, 2025, with revelers determined to enjoy the festivities, even as severe weather loomed. Early Tuesday morning, the iconic Carnival season neared its climactic end, marked by the vibrancy of parades and traditions deeply rooted in New Orleans’ culture. Weather predictions warned of thunderstorms and winds gusting up to 60 mph, leading city officials to adjust parade schedules to earlier times to accommodate the potentially dangerous conditions.
The spirited Northside Skull and Bones Gang kicked off the celebrations, waking residents with their drums and chants, epitomizing the authentic New Orleans experience. Kendall Calyen, 41, shared his joy, stating, “Mardi Gras is all about having these moments. This city is like nowhere else in the country right now.” His sentiments echoed the mood of many who gathered to celebrate the enduring traditions of Mardi Gras.
The Krewe of Zulu and Krewe of Rex, recognized as two of the largest parades, commenced their processions earlier than scheduled with modified routes. Both parades were stripped of their marching bands to focus on safety and flow, showcasing decorated floats and masked riders. Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick confirmed the parades were required to finish by noon to avoid worsening conditions.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, addressing the adjustments made for the festivities, expressed her pride: “My favorite part is the authenticity of the city of New Orleans on full display for the world to see, which is woven and embedded in our culture through our people.” Despite the challenges of the weather and security details, the resilience of the Mardi Gras spirit shone brightly as Jeremy Speed, 40, member of Krewe of Zulu, reflected positively on the event. “At least they let us roll, they figured it out. They gave us a little something,” he remarked, clutching his prized hand-painted coconuts to toss to the crowd.
While the day was meant to be festively filled with color and joy, it was also shadowed by the tragic events earlier this year when 14 people lost their lives to a truck attack on January 1. Adjustments to security reflected the heightened caution, with law enforcement deployed extensively along the parade routes and barriers set up to prevent incidents. Celebrants understood these measures—such as SWAT team presence and helicopter surveillance—were for everyone’s safety.
Later parades originally slated for this day had been postponed to March 9, with nearly 200 truck floats cancelled due to weather concerns. The atmosphere, though charged with anticipation for what was to come, retained echoes of sorrow from events past. Amid these feelings, the city’s vibrant culture fought to shine through, showcasing masks, elaborate costumes, and the joyous spirit of Mardi Gras.
Jasmine Batiste, 28, embodied this spirit as she paraded down the streets adorned in her custom blue beaded outfit she’d spent countless hours preparing. “For real, you start tomorrow,” she laughed, ready to continue the tradition for next year as soon as Fat Tuesday concluded. She, alongside fellow participants, formed the colorful backdrop representing African American history celebrating through music, dance, and unity.
While some nearby cities, like Mobile and Pensacola, held their own celebrations, nobody could doubt the unmatched energy of New Orleans Mardi Gras. The city transformed itself yearly, wrapping itself around the multi-faceted heritage of festivities, celebrating with family-friendly events visible around the city. Social clubs known as krewes organized parades, each uniquely structured with rituals accompanying their presentations of floats, beads, coconuts, and more.
Made even sweeter, the cultural touchstone, the king cake, burst forth every Mardi Gras, symbolizing indulgence before the beginning of Lent. Family traditions revived year after year, making the holiday feel rich with history and spirit. “The celebration started in Rome and France before making its way to the American colonies,” said Christy Garrison-Harrison, historian at Southern University, encapsulating the global reach of Mardi Gras.
The culmination of weeks-long festivities filled with vibrant colors and unforgettable memories came on this year’s Fat Tuesday. Despite the multiple obstacles faced this season, including security measures and unpredictably severe weather, the strength and spirit of New Orleans remained unwavered. This resilience serves as both shield and celebration, carving out unique moments reflecting the city’s heart and unity. Yes, there’s nothing quite like Mardi Gras—an example of community, joy, and mutual respect.
Indeed, Mardi Gras continued, defiant against the odds, culminating fiercely on this day, marking the end of Carnival season, and leaving joyous memories set against the backdrop of the city's storied traditions. From the Zulu parade’s joyous coconut tosses, to the colorful floats of the Krewe of Rex, New Orleans showcased what it means to hold tight to traditions, ensuring everyone carries the magic of Mardi Gras forward.
On this day, as the streets buzzed with excitement and laughter, residents and guests shared one spirit—an invitation to celebrate life, culture, and community. Laissez les bons temps rouler!