February 17, 2023

Mardi Gras From My Front Balcony

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Christopher B. Merritt, MD, FACR


New Orleans Mardi Gras is unlike any festival with entertainment, ranging from crazy and risqué antics in the French Quarter to family-friendly gatherings along the uptown parade routes. During the six or so weeks of Carnival, 33 parades pass the front balcony of our home on Saint Charles Avenue, attracting not only our kids and grandkids, but friends and visitors who enjoy the ringside spectacle of endless parades and plenty of New Orleans food and drink.

Since retiring from practice, I’ve had a chance to return to my long-time interest in photography from the perfect location, capturing the action and color of Mardi Gras. Below are some recent photos:


Rex Parade: Boeuf Gras

Rex Parade: Boeuf Gras
Rex, the king of Carnival, rides upon the lead float — the Boeuf Gras (fat beef) — which represents the final day of feasting before lent.

  

Flambeaux

Flambeaux
Several of the night parades include flambeaux carriers who lead the floats with torches fueled by acetylene, kerosine or more recently, propane.
     

Orpheus Mega Float

Orpheus Mega Float
Nearly a block long, a signature float from the Krewe of Orpheus rolls along the night before Mardi Gras.

  

Mardi Gras Fantasy

Mardi Gras Fantasy
This collage represents just a few of the sights from our front balcony during Mardi Gras.