Members of the Phunny Phorty Phellows, participate in their night of revelry aboard a streetcar in New Orleans. King's Day is a  tradition marking the 12th night after Christmas and the official start of the Mardi season. Carnival is celebrated along the Gulf Coast with parties, balls and parades culminating on Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, a final day of celebration before Lent. It is a major tourist draw in New Orleans. Mardi Gras falls on Feb. 17 this year.

Mardi Gras party season begins in New Orleans

Carnival is celebrated along the Gulf Coast with parties, balls and parades culminating on Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, a final day of celebration before Lent. It is a major tourist draw in New Orleans.

  • Contains: