Mardi Gras Photos

Photograph by Krista Rossow

Creatively costumed locals march in the fringe Box of Wine parade the Sunday before Mardi Gras. They distribute handmade or recycled throws and free wine to spectators in the Uptown neighborhood, preparing the way for the huge Krewe of Bacchus parade later that evening.

Photograph by Krista Rossow

Police officers keep the parade route clear for Bacchusaurus, one of the signature floats of the Krewe of Bacchus that rolls on the Sunday night before Mardi Gras. This "super krewe" of more than 1,350 members is known for its spectacular floats and for its annual celebrity king (2009's king was Val Kilmer).

Photograph by Krista Rossow

Early on Mardi Gras morning, a woman dressed in a bright blue Indian costume emerges onto the streets of the Tremé neighborhood.

Photograph by Krista Rossow

A life-size mannequin of the late Ernie K-Doe, the "Emperor," still reigns at the Mother-in-Law lounge, named for his one-hit wonder song. Although Miss Antoinette, Ernie's wife, passed away early on Mardi Gras morning of 2009, the lounge remains a vibrant gathering place on the corner of N. Claiborne and Columbus.

Photograph by Krista Rossow

Wandering into Marcus Fraser's backyard in the Bywater neighborhood on Mardi Gras morning is a little like falling down the rabbit hole. Costumed revelers mill about, catching up with friends and complimenting each other's elaborate ensembles before the Society of St. Anne parade begins to wander down Royal Street towards the French Quarter.

Photograph by Krista Rossow

A man dressed as a devil plays trumpet as the St. Anne parade makes its way through the Marigny neighborhood.

Photograph by Krista Rossow

Finally arriving in the French Quarter, the participants in the Society of St. Anne parade disperse into the afternoon to enjoy the last remaining hours of celebration before Mardi Gras comes to a close at midnight.