Along St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans, Mardi Gras Day is all about tradition and family.
While most people are sleeping at 3:00 in the morning, Nicholas Keelen and his family are hard at work. His main focus is prepping his food, grill and pot.
"This is what it's about," Keelen said. "There's not many places in America where you can get out and do this kind of stuff in the wee hours of the morning. It's the biggest party in America."
Keelen cooks enough food to feed the whole party and friends made along the route.
On the menu this Fat Tuesday, "Boiling turkey necks, crawfish, shrimp, potatoes and the whole nines," Keelen said.
Lots of families also dress up. We found one decked out as unicorns.
Jason Tullos said, "We got together and said let's do something a little different. Why not! It's a little warm, but we're getting through it. We're having a good time...a little sparkly so they can see us in the crowd."
Queen of Zulu, Dr. Candra Macias was impressed by the crowds.
"Thousands of people are out here in our community to celebrate Mardi Gras and we're so thankful to be part of it," Macias said.
Zulu and Rex is a New Orleans tradition. Revelers try landing special momentos from the krewes.
Kizzy Gros said, "I mainly come out here to get my coconut. 2020 Zulu you heard me!"
During the Rex parade, spectators were dazzled by the colorful, ornate floats and bands.
"Laisez les bon temps rouler and long live the tradition of our great, great state of Louisiana," Tullos said.
