But in New Orleans, Zulu takes on its own meaning as a Black social club which hosts an annual ball and other events during Mardi Gras. The organization, or “krewe,” was founded in 1909 to ...

The makeup carries grave significance for the group as Brian Sims, a former Zulu king, explains: "Back in the 1900s, the rules are, you have to mask. Every organization wears a mask during Mardi Gras.

But in New Orleans, Zulu takes on its own meaning as a Black social club which hosts an annual ball and other events during Mardi Gras. The organization, or “krewe,” was founded in 1909 to ...

Mardi Gras allows people to celebrate before the Lenten season, where people become more disciplined and give up habits for 40 days. Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox ...

Mardi Gras comes to a close on Tuesday night, and soon, those who celebrate will exclaim “Laissez les bons temps rouler,” or “Let the good times roll” for the last time this Carnival season.

“Mardi Gras is all about having these moments. This city is like nowhere else in the country right now,” said Kendall Calyen, 41, marveling at the 200-year-old tradition unfolding before his eyes.

This year's Mardi Gras Day fell unusually late in the year.But the outsized culture of street parties, extravagant balls and spirited parades has evolved into a decidedly secular spectacle in the ...

“Mardi Gras is all about having these moments. This city is like nowhere else in the country right now,” said Kendall Calyen, 41, marveling at the 200-year-old tradition unfolding before his eyes.

“Mardi Gras is all about having these moments. This city is like nowhere else in the country right now,” said Kendall Calyen, 41, marveling at the 200-year-old tradition unfolding before his eyes.

Rex, the King of Carnival, rides in the Krewe of Rex as he arrives at Canal St. on Mardi Gras day in New Orleans, March 8, 2011. Photo by: Gerald Herbert / AP, file ...