Heartland

Following the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina, local agencies have estimated the number of tourists for this year's New Orleans Mardi Gras at about 400,000, less than half the normal contingent of outsiders who line streets for colourful parades, take in funky bands at the bars across town and jam Bourbon Street.

This year, Mardi Gras is much more than just a party for residents of the city that gave the world jazz music, say die-hard locals. That's especially true now, when New Orleans is trying to revive after its worst catastrophe. Take a look at our gallery of images from this year's festivities.





http://www.msn.co.uk/htx/new_orleans_mardi_gras/