Fat Tuesday is only a few days away and the residents of New Orleans are convulsing with anticipatory excitement and glee at the weekend parades, balls and crawfish boils leading to the grand finale. Mardi Gras is one of the finest celebrations in the world and what makes it particularly unique is the egalitarian nature that lies at its very heart - everyone is welcome to come witness and participate in Carnival. And for those very few who are not, Mardi Gras comes to them.
Mardi Gras celebrated at the Louisiana Leper Home in Carville, Louisiana in 1957. There is little information about this image though it appears to be a procession of drumming jesters through the facility - the recreation center, most likely - during their carnival ball. Residents and staff in formalwear can be seen in the background. Click for source.
