NEW ORLEANS — Residents celebrating the start of Carnival season on Sunday were met with sunshine and warm weather as they partied in preparation for Mardi Gras around the city.
In Midcity, dozens of families gathered at the King Cake Hub on Canal Street, sponsored by Pizza Nola, to try out more than 30 varieties of the carnival delicacy from different New Orleans-area venders. Some cakes also came from Houma.
“We’ve got a great season ahead of us,” one organizer said.
At Gallier Hall, Carnival krewes like Zulu and Rex gathered to ring in Three King’s Day with New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell.
"Through Carnival season, it's that spirit of love, it's that spirit of life that we are embarking on, on this beautiful Sunday morning. I think that is a reason to celebrate together," Cantrell said.
Rex and Zulu officials both revealed their themes for this year’s parade on a large poster.
Rex officials said their theme focuses on the sun and how people have looked to it for guidance throughout history.
Zulu’s theme is how the organization relates to New Orleans history.
The event at Gallier Hall came to a proper close when the king cake was cut, signaling the official beginning of Carnival.
"No matter who you are, or where you are in the city of New Orleans, let's make sure our people feel the love, it's Carnival time," Cantrell said.
Mardi Gras Day is March 5, 2019.