Mardi Gras 2011

Saturday 5 March
     After going to the aquarium and Wild Life World, my friends and I made our way over to the Mardi Gras parade. One of our teachers at school was holding a place for students and we got there just after 4pm. You have to get there early because they shut down the street at about 4:30 and you can't cross after that. Our teacher had been at the spot since 6AM!!!!!!!!!!!! Now that is dedication. Once we got there we waited around and just talked since the parade didn't start until 7:45! Yes, we waited almost 4 hours for it to start, and it didn't end until after 10 pm. It was very long and very crowded but it was also a ton of fun!

Here is my favorite float from the night. 

     When you think of Mardi Gras what do you see? I think purple, green, and gold, everyone in masks and wearing beads. Well, just about the only thing Mardi Gras about this parade was people wearing beads because this wasn't just normal Mardi Gras it was Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. Here everyone is very accepting and open about it. It was really refreshing, I didn't even see one protester during the 6+ hours I was there. And there was someone from every group in the parade including, the firefighters and police, all different religions and races, and a bunch of clubs from around the area! There was plenty to see, as I'm sure you can imagine. I won't go into detail except to say it was definitely a unique experience and I'm very glad I went!

My friend Jess and I showing our support for gay pride! 

HAPPY BELATED MARDI GRAS EVERYONE!!!