As one who loves to host friends and family for Carnival and beyond, I take note when a great gift idea pops onto my radar. Yesterday, at the bottom of the New Orleans Tidbits newsletter there was a postscript about the 2016 Mardi Gras Manual available at Dirty Coast. This handy, dandy, 32-page pocket manual has everything you need to know for Carnival.
From parade packing lists and costume tips to rundowns (including a summary, tips, what to bring and the best places to catch throws) of the top 10 best parades, the illustrated manual is jam packed with essential info. At $5 per book or 14 for a pack of three this is slated to become my go-to welcome gift for visitors.
As I mentioned in last week’s post, “Party Primer: Tips for hosts and guests for being prepped and peppy throughout Carnival season,” this is our third season. That being said, while I have some experience, I don’t claim to be an expert. The reason I say that is the book isn’t just for neophytes. It has several tips for those like me who’ve been in the trenches a few times and perhaps even for lifers. Who doesn’t like a great tip?
On that note, hat tip to New Orleans Tidbits. The Mardi Gras Manual and its subsequent editions might just become a local classic. At the very least, it might save you from forgetting to pack a flask for your favorite parade.
