The first full-dress Mardi Gras since 2020 started Tuesday. With fewer Covid-19 hospitalizations, falling case numbers, and 92% of the city's adult population at least partially vaccinated, organizers and the crowds are ready to party.
Back and better? Fewer police officers in the city have necessitated shorter parade routes. Some local businesses report ten-year high numbers, with hotels down almost 20% from 2020.
Telling it like it is - NOLA: Come for the massive party; stay because there is a gator between you and your car.