I can only visit for a few days, whats the prime time to see Mardi Gras?
As mentioned above, Mardi Gras really kicks into high gear the last two weeks. The height of the party – including the most famous parades and other activities – is the last long five-day weekend, from Friday through Fat Tuesday. For 2007, this means Feb. 16-20. The weekend before that also offers a packed selection of parades and plenty of partying in the Quarter, and may be preferable if you’re not sure about the whole Mardi Gras thing. Mardi Gras involves big, big rowdy crowds. Some find the final frenzy overwhelming . . . others thrive on it. And some locals schedule vacation and head to Dubuque.