Photos: Mardi Gras steps off before the season of Lent
1 / 24
Float riders toss trinkets at the Krewe of Cleopatra Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, Friday, Feb. 2, 2018. Mardi Gras season is kicking into high gear with a slew of major parades throughout New Orleans. Although Carnival season officially began Jan. 6, the festivities really kick into high gear the two weekends ahead of Fat Tuesday. This year Fat Tuesday is Feb. 13. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)