While the Mardi Gras festivities are finished here in Acadiana, they’re still going strong for revelers in New Orleans.
Today, Zulu and Rex rolled through the Crescent City. Thousands of people packed the parade route not only to catch some unique throws, but also to witness history.
“You know, there’s just a culture here that you can’t get anywhere else in Louisiana,” said Benita January.
As Zulu rolled, parade goers were anxious to get their hands on one of the 30,000 hand painted Zulu coconuts.
“I have 650 just in my bag,” said one Zulu character.
Further down St. Charles Avenue, a historic moment for the Krewe of Rex.
Nearly two weeks ago, a massive fire destroyed a mansion known as a toasting spot for the krewe.
“If we wouldn’t have done it, it would have been a travesty, but thank God we did it,” said George Montgomery.
Robert Boh, the King of Rex said, “Traditions are what makes Mardi Gras such a special thing and makes New Orleans such a unique place. The tradition of the Rex Parade stopping at this sight and toasting the families has been uninterrupted since 1907.”
Parade goers said although the loss of the Rex mansion is devastating, they would not want to toast the king anywhere else.
“I’m at a loss of words of the outpouring of love and support from around the country to be honest,” said Montgomery. “My family knew how much it meant to us, but we had no idea how much it meant to the rest of the country.”
