Posted in: Exploring Louisiana, Sightseeing, YouTube Video Link

Happy Mardi Gras!: Virtual Parade

VIDEO: Floats In The Oaks, New Orleans Mardi Gras 2021

The usual Mardi Gras parades were cancelled this year due to COVID. NOLA kept the spirit of Mardi Gras alive by decorating their houses and yards (aka Float Houses and Yardi Gras. Click here for my Float House post.) In the great words of Ron Popeil, “But wait, there’s more!”

Someone came up with the idea of having the floats that had been made for parades all in one spot so people could drive through and see them. With that, Floats In The Oaks was born. The floats were placed in City Park and you could purchase tickets to drive through to see the them. Prices varied a little based on timed entrance and the package you picked. We went with the basic package to just see the floats. It cost us $11.99 and was worth every penny. At check-in, we even received a bead necklace.

It was amazing to see the floats. If you missed it, we have a video with some commentary on YouTube (see link above or below).

VIDEO: Floats In The Oaks, New Orleans Mardi Gras 2021

Posted in: Exploring Louisiana, Sightseeing

Happy Mardi Gras Eve!

Although the epic parades were cancelled this year in New Orleans to prevent the spread of COVID, they tried to keep the Mardi Gras spirit alive by decorating their houses. They called them “float houses” and we were lucky enough to see some of them during our stay.

Here are some of the houses we saw while in New Orleans. (There are a lot of images, so it may take awhile to load. Sorry!)

One of our favorites!
Bernie sighting
Even a RV was decorated at our campground!
Balconies (even the police station decorated!), Bernie sighting #2
Balcony decorations
Even Walmart decorated!

One of the things I love about New Orleans is their zest for life. Although it is clear that the pandemic has hit this tourist town pretty hard, their resilient spirit shows in how they live their daily lives. Thanks New Orleans for bringing a little joy into this tough situation. Laissez les bon temps rouler…. even if we have to be a little different than normal.

More Information: Float Houses and Map (Nola.com)

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