The immovalbe feast

Can't really blame the various parading organizations for keeping their options open. But if you aren't at least hedging your bets on whether there are going to be Mardi Gras parades next year then you're just deluding yourself.

There are a few nods to caution: Some krewes are ordering throws without dates that could be stored and used in 2022 if the celebration is called off. Others won't hold traditional large indoor dances and gatherings. Deadlines for riders to sign up for some parades have been relaxed.

The captain of the Knights of Sparta, who declined to reveal his real-life identity, said that his organization will forgo next years’ coronation party and traditional bal masque, which would gather the membership in the Pontchartrain Center convention hall. Yet, he said, the krewe’s customary St. Charles Avenue parade will take place if allowed.

"Personally," he said, "I think there’s a 50-50 chance."

Some perspective is helpful here.  There have been years when New Orleans has gotten through a Carnival season without parades.  These have happened during police strikes, wars, you know, major events that you might want to take seriously.

Do we take COVID 19 seriously?  It doesn't always seem like we do.