Lundi Gras and Mardi Gras have come and gone. It’s been a beautiful Carnival season, but all good things must (gloriously) come to an end. Before we completely close the door, I wanted to share a few final Carnival thoughts.
To top off my season of celebrating the king cakes, I tried the new babka king cake from Saba Uptown. This cinnamon braided bread confection is topped with a cinnamon and pomegranate streusel topping and brings on the flavor big time. It’s giving layers. It’s giving buttery goodness. It’s giving sweet, but not too sweet. It definitely brought an oomph to our weekend Carnival spread.
I also caved and bought a box of moon pies. Did we need the extra sugar bomb? No. Would it be Carnival without them? Not at our house. Will I ever eat a moon pie outside of Carnival time? Probably not. Pro-tip, stick one in the microwave just for 10 to 15 seconds for optimal enjoyment.
Looking for some Carnival music to add to your post-Carnival playlist? Check out the new release from the makers of the upcoming film “Take Me to the River: New Orleans,” a documentary celebrating the city’s music culture and history. “Carnival Time” features New Orleans icons Irma Thomas, Cyril Neville, George Porter, Jr., Ian Neville and Ivan Neville. According to a recent press release, the film, and corresponding album (to be released April 1), will also feature PJ Morton, The Neville Brothers, G-Eazy, Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah, Snoop Dogg, Dumpstaphunk, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, William Bell, Ani DiFranco, Donald Harrison, Ledisi, Big Freedia, Galactic, the late Dr. John, and many more. You can watch the trailer here.
Now the parades have past and all the king cake has been eaten, Oschner is hosting its 7th annual “Alcohol Free for 40 Challenge.” Participants give up alcohol from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday. If you are up for joining the zero-proof life for a while, check out the challenge website with information on how to join, plus access to an online support group to cheer on your progress.
