Mardi Gras Day. There is no better time in New Orleans to appreciate creativity, colour, and characters than the Krewe of St. Anne. Starting before 9am in the Bywater, participants congregate at the corner of Franklin and Royal in the Marigny and eventually make their way slowly en route to the Quarter. Fat Tuesday 2014 was sadly both wet and cold, so when we awoke on 17 February 2015 and it was chilly, but dry, everyone excitedly took to the street only donning an extra layer and reveled that there was no need for an umbrella.

There was even a co-ed synchronized swimming team that performed a stunning routine mid-route.

What a surprise! Our friends thought of the most creative way to announce they were expecting through costume. Apparently they needed to fend off people from trying to eat the King Cake decor, too.

In the end, we danced and drank champagne surrounded by an upbeat crowd outside of Lafitte's after congratulating another close friend on her (exceptionally unique) engagement.