The day before Fat Tuesday is called Lundi Gras (aka Fat Monday). On that day, the Krewe of Red Beans marches through the Marigny neighborhood, showcasing their incredibly unique bean-laden creations. This intro video gives you a great overview and taste of the creations but it's, truly, impossible to fully capture the magic of it all. Check this Camellia Bean Blog Entry for a taste of it.

It's also worth noting that while the creativity of the parade is incredibly impressive, the Krewe is also a huge hub for community good with their Beanlandia project. It's a membership program, a giant warehouse space and a commitment to ensuring that locals are taken care of. People tend to think of New Orleans and Mardi Gras as an excuse to just be sloppy drunk (which certainly happens) but it's a town deeply soaked in creativity and fellowship.