pMardi Gras is an annual celebration that is held the day before Lent. As Lent and Easter dates change yearly, so the Mardi Gras date also changes yearly. The Mardi Gras date 2012 is February 21. However, one will probably want to arrive in New Orleans at least a few days ahead of time in order to check out the city. In fact, Mardi Gras celebrations start well before the official Mardi Gras date. The first two parades are held on February 4 and are scheduled to go through the city’s well known French Quarter. The Krewe du Vieux starts at 6:30 in the afternoon; this parade is then followed by the Krewe Delusion. There is one other parade scheduled for February fifth and about three dozen more parades that take place from February 10 up through February 20. However, those who are unable to enjoy these parades can still enjoy the nine parades that are scheduled for February 21. These parades start at 8:00 am and continue throughout the morning.br /br /What Can One Expect at Mardi Gras 2012?br /br /Each year, Mardi Gras gets better and better. This unique holiday offers many attractions and events that one can partake in. While one does not have to get dressed up or wear a mask, doing so definitely adds to the fun. Those who are fortunately enough to be invited to a Mardi Gras ball are sure to find the occasion to be simply unforgetable. The ball invitations are keepsakes that one will want to hang onto. While they are no longer printed in France as they once were, they are still beautiful, colorful works of art that many people treasure.br /br /Several Louisiana museums host carnivals and special exhibitions. The Louisiana State Museum, Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum and Rivertown Mardi Gras museum are all good places to visit while in town for Mardi Gras. Each of these places are steeped in history and have over a century’s worth of attractions on display. These museums display ornate costumes, interesting memorabilia and treasures from Mardi Gras celebrations of years gone by. It is possible to either visit the museum alone or book a tour package that includes a visit to one or more of the above mentioned locations.br /br /Is There Any Truth to the Numerous Mardi Gras Rumors and Myths Floating Around?br /br /Taking part in Mardi Gras is sure to be unforgettable and many people who come for one Mardi Gras celebration end up coming back again and again. It is a unique time that is dedicating to having fun and making new friends. However, like other cities throughout the country, New Orleans also has a shady section that is generally best avoided. Many people are disturbed by rumors of women baring their breasts in public, but one should realize that this is not a common occurrence. While wild things do happen, they are not the norm and Mardi Gras is generally a clean, safe and family friendly holiday.br /br /Anyone who is interested in knowing more about a href=http://mardigras2012.net/2012 Mardi Gras/a should check out the rest of the information on the site. This information can help one to plan an enjoyable Mardi Gras event that will be remembered and cherished for many years to come.br /br //p