Links and packing tips below!

In this video, Andrew and James share some ideas for how to prepare for a parade, including information to look for ahead of time, options for where to watch, and what the elements of a parade are. We're specifically focusing here on float parades - walking parades have different locations, smaller crowds, and fewer throws, but you can still find information about them by the means listed in this video.

Parade tracker app:
Apple - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wwl-mar...
Android - https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...

Non-app source for routes, times, photos, and history:
https://www.mardigrasneworleans.com/p...

A comprehensive and visually rich guide available in print in New Orleans (and in a more limited form online):
http://www.mardigrasguide.com/

Grandstand seating:
https://www.mardigrasparadetickets.com/


ITEMS TO CONSIDER PACKING

- CLOTHES - obviously wear clothes (much of what you've heard about Mardi Gras is exaggerated!), but things to aim for in particular are:

1) comfort, because you'll be out for a good while and probably moving a lot;
2) weather adaptability, like a layer you can add or subtract, because the temperature changes fast this time of year; and
3) flashiness - a lot of people like to wear costumes to parades, and if you want to catch a lot of throws, you need the riders on the floats to notice you! It's all about the upper body here - that's all the folks on the floats can see.

- GLOVES - if your hands are cold (and holding a cold drink counts), catching a well-thrown string of beads can HURT.

- SNACKS - being hangry ruins the fun, and it's gonna be a high-calorie day.

- DRINKS - water at least, and alcohol optionally - if not for you, then for barter (offering a float rider a drink can get you some good throws). Cans rather than bottles if you can help it.

- SPARE PHONE BATTERY AND CABLE - obvious reasons.

- TOILET PAPER OR OTHER SANITARY ITEMS - obvious reasons if you use your imagination.

- CASH - a lot of curbside stands pop up during Mardi Gras and some are cash only, plus you may want $1s to tip the flambeaux.

- EMPTY GROCERY BAGS - for throws or trash.

. . . and whatever you carry your supplies in, leave a little room - thanks to the throws, most parade watchers leave carrying more than they arrived with.


BONUS POINTS - you'll see people along the route holding posters, which can be a fun tactic for catching attention - you can use a poster to tell the float riders if it's your first Mardi Gras or if it's your birthday (not the most creative options, but workable), or make a joke on the theme of the parade, or just write "Hey Jamie" - there's bound to be a Jamie on one of the floats. Glitter helps.


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