If you want to get a taste of what Mardi Gras is like, you should consider Bourbon Street during Halloween. Arrive the Saturday night before for the Gay and Lesbian parade. You will see some of the best costumes! On Halloween eve the rest of the tourists join the parade. What some people won/t do for some 10 cent beads! Get yourself a balcony room over Bourbon Street, buy a couple gross of beads and enjoy the fun!