Mardi Gras in Akron?

It is really hard for me to say exactly what Mardi Gras means to this city and even the nation at large because I simply haven't experienced it before. My hometown, Akron, Ohio, never had parades or even parties, really; a regular school night made fun impossible. Even at a Jesuit high school, Mardi Gras day was just another Tuesday that may or may not have gotten a mention over the morning announcements. Oddly enough, after Katrina I never heard anything said about Mardi Gras being wasteful as so many apparently did. Most around our town seemed to be happy for the city and excited that it was actually recovering.

Mardis Gras in New Orleans is wrapped up in the mystique of the city. One mostly hears about Bourbon Street and the insane party and beads, but occasionally I saw pictures when I was younger (like the Mardi Gras Indians) that hinted at something much more special and unique than the ubiquitous "spring break." I am excited to hear the music and see the floats. I look forward to this experience. As Dr. Hunt said, this holiday is definitely part of the larger reason I came down here: To experience the culture and music of the city.