New Orleans' Mardi Gras Not Canceled In 2021 But Will Be Different

Though Mardi Gras is still months away, the city of New Orleans is already coming up with a plan to hold the annual celebration. On Thursday, Mayor LaToya Cantrell and other city leaders met with Carnival krewe captains to discuss ways they can make Mardi Gras safe in the midst of the pandemic.

"It is a religious holiday and in no way will it be canceled in our city, but it will be something different," Mayor Cantrell said.

The city released a statement on Thursday to let the public know that Mardi Gras will continue.

"The COVID pandemic is a reality that we must all continue to confront together," the city said in a statement released Thursday. "We are working closely with our krewe captains and our community to determine what Carnival will look like at a time when our resources are stretched so thin and many of our traditions present dangers to public health. We expect to confirm additional details in the weeks ahead, and to celebrate Mardi Gras Day in a new way that reflects our new reality."

According to 4WWL, a subcommittee has been asked to present plans to the city about how Mardi Gras can be held safely. They have until December 5 to submit their plans, which would then need to be approved by the City Council. Some of the suggestions so far include urging parade-goers to wear facial coverings, check their temperature before attending, and maintaining social distance. Additionally, they have suggested limiting alcohol consumption and "high value" throws.

Members of krewes and superkrewes are working with the city to make the celebration the best it can be under the present circumstances.

"The Krewe of Bacchus is working every day to present its typical high quality parade for the citizens of New Orleans and the world on February 14, 2021," the Bacchus krewe said Thursday. "We have a theme, freshly painted floats as well as throws and costumes in production. Bacchus definitely plans to roll down St. Charles Avenue pending approval from the City of New Orleans."

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