Mardi Gras, the Soulard way

Did you know that the St.Louis Mardi Gras is the 2nd largest, after New Orleans? I grew up going to Mardi Gras parades in Mobile, Alabama (which is the real birth place of Mardi Gras in the United States) and the first time I attended a St.Louis (Soulard) Mardi Gras parade I was a little disappointed. Of course I was. After all I had always known the big, flashy floats and marching bands and moon pies. The "big" parade for the Soulard Mardi Gras is always held the Saturday before Fat Tuesday, and they do have floats, and they throw beads, and there are drunk people a plenty. After a few years it really grows on you, and you look forward to it.

My birthday falls on Fat Tuesday this year, and I was fortunate enough to spend this past weekend in St.Louis attending the Soulard Mardi Gras. I took lots of pictures, got lots of beads, and of course, drank at least one Hurricane in an over sized cup. I, mostly enjoyed the company I kept and had a great time making fun of the overly drunk college kids.

I know you probably can't tell from these pictures but every float has a portapotty on it, which is something I've always found very amusing.

Of course what adult Mardi Gras experience is complete before drinking out of an over sized cup? I filled mine with beads to bring back to the kids. I think they were happier to get their beads than to have their mommy home again. What about any of you? Have you ever attended a Mardi Gras celebration? Do you have one where you live?