New Orleans knows how to put on a party! It is fun any time of the year, but no time is more special than the annual Mardi Gras celebration. At this time of the year, the wonderful wrought iron balconies of the French Quarter are creatively decorated with the colors of Mardi Gras...purple, green and gold. Purple stands for justice, green for faith, and gold for power. There are many terrific parades in the weeks leading up to Mardi Gras day, and it is truly a party for all ages. You can spend days taking in all of the city's traditions. 2013 promises to be even more festive as New Orleans hosts the SuperBowl during the Mardi Gras celebration.