Krewe of Highland parade, Shreveport

TalbotCrowdKreweOfHighland
Originally uploaded by trudeau.

Across the Bayou State, along the Gulf rim - from Florida through Texas - and in the world's big cities, Carnival is a growing season. In Louisiana the season of Carnival begins with balls on Twelfth Night, or the Feast of Kings, aka the Feast of the Epiphany, on Jan 6.

Sadly, America's home to the Carnival spirit, New Orleans, will struggle to maintain its carnival traditions in 2006. Hellish storm Katrina ravaged the city and the state. Recovery will not be quickly achieved.

How to Mardi Gras, by author-illustrator Robert Trudeau, will nonetheless help people prepare to do their best in helping the Crescent City keep the vibe alive. Knowing the holiday's background and having suggestions in your masking and partying can deepen your participation.