The Globe and Mail

Malia Miyashiro of California throws beads from a Bourbon St. balcony to Mardi Gras revellers in the French Quarter of New Orleans.

Riders on a float toss beads to the crowds on Napoleon Avenue during the Krewe of New Orleans Most Talked Of Club (NOMTOC) parade.

Actor Will Ferrell reigns as Bacchus XLIV for the Krewe of Bacchus parade on Napoleon Ave. in New Orleans. Ferrell has been filming in the city since November.

Flambeaux Carriers march along side the Captain's float in a Mardi Gras parade.

The Zulu Parade moves through the central business district of New Orleans.

A couple costumed in horse masks dance on Bourbon Street as part of the Mardi Gras celebration in the French Quarter of New Orleans.

A member of the Kolossus performance troupe rides a converted bicycle during the Orpheus Mardi Gras parade.

The Krewe of Muses celebrate the Saints with the Forever XLIV float in New Orleans. Members of the Krewe of Muses make their mark on the celebration by donning satin tunics, brightly coloured masks and feathered headdresses.

A Muses rider smiles at a little girl during the Muses parade. The event, says Krewe of Muses founder Staci Rosenberg, has the flavour of 'a girls night out, but with fun for kids.'

Entertainer Cyndi Lauper throws beads while riding in a Mardi Gras parade.

Singer Harry Connick Jr. tosses toys while riding in a Mardi Gras parade.

Entertainer Bret Michaels holds a handful of beads while riding in a Mardi Gras parade.

A drum major for the St. Augustine Marching 100, a high-school marching band, leads the way during the Orpheus Mardi Gras parade.

Members of the 610 Stompers performance troupe perform during the Orpheus Mardi Gras parade.

Flambeaus, or flame bearers, provide light for the Orpheus Mardi Gras parade.

A horseman waves to spectators during the Orpheus Mardi Gras parade.

Members of the Muff-A-Lotta's performance troupe dance with pizza pans during the Orpheus Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans.