For years now, the Thursday evening before Mardi Gras has been a not-to-miss highlight ... and membership would be open to all adult women, with an emphasis on racial and economic diversity.

Celebrating women and their accomplishments is a focus ... And while it's not exactly religious, Mardi Gras is also a big March holiday. The date for this holiday changes year to year, of course ...

Big Chief Demond Melancon wears his Red Cloud suit amongst other members of Mardi Gras Indian tribes ... More during Mardi Gras 2014. In February 2021, the usual bustle of New Orleans’ Canal ...

Many people mistakenly believe that Mardi Gras is just one day, said Christy Garrison-Harrison, an assistant professor of history and women, gender, and sexuality studies at Southern University ...