This the first version of this post debuted on Mardi Gras Day in 2023. But first an introduction, consider this a holiday hybrid post.

Carnival 2026 has been challenging and not just for me. It’s not just the Chad conquest of my corner. It wasn’t quite a MAGA Mardi Gras season but it came close. There’s been a lot of bad behavior from float riders. We’ve had our annual racist incident, two floats emptied because of hostile bead tossing at the crowd, as well as egregious Chaddery hither and yon. Oy, just oy.

My Carnival is over. I wish everyone who hits the streets a safe and fun day.

The featured image is of Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro, not Carnival in New Orleans. Here’s why. Every Mardi Gras Day this quote pops up on the social media feeds of many New Orleanians:

I dislike cliches: what’s worse this wildly untrue statement is a sign of civic insecurity. Our Mardi Gras *is* great but it’s not the only one in the world. I wish it didn’t bring out the stupid in so many people.

I feel better now that I’ve gotten that off my chest.

Dr. A is hitting the streets but I’m staying home and enjoying NOT being in the parade box for the first time in two weeks.

There are many ways to celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans: Uptown, Downtown, Zulu, Rex, St. Anne or on the porch or couch.

But it’s too late to book passage to Rio where it’s not just Tuesday either.

Here’s a link to my Carnival Tunes Dozen.

Happy Mardi Gras.

The last word goes to the Rebirth Brass Band: