Morning Open Thread is a daily, copyrighted post from a host of editors and guest writers. We support our community, invite and share ideas, and encourage thoughtful, respectful dialogue in an open forum.
I’ve come to think of this post as one where you come for the music and stay for the conversation—so feel free to drop a note. The diarist gets to sleep in if she so desires and can show up long after the post is published. So you know, it's a feature, not a bug.
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Mardi Gras Has Been Cancelled
Well, the parades have been cancelled as have the marching bands and traditional hoards of locals and visitors enjoying the last revelry before Ash Wednesday and the 40 days of Lent. While I may well be in the minority of locals, I will sorely miss Mardi Gras this year (and have lamented the lack of parties and parades and general insanity that precedes it).
Mardi Gras Day is February 16 this year. Fat Tuesday is the last day of the Carnival season as it always falls the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. While there will be no parades this year, there will be Mardi Gras house floats, special Mardi Gras cocktails in bars and restaurants, king cakes and so much more.
As with most things this past year, I’ll celebrate in my own way and in near solitude; but I can still raise a glass to Bacchus and listen to the music that would be ubiquitous were the streets and bars open. Not the same, sure, but there’s always next year.
Cheers to all and a happy Friday all around.
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Grab your coffee or tea and join us, please.
What's on your mind this morning?