New Orleans is nearly synonymous with Mardi Gras, but this uniquely Cajun/Creole celebration of Carnival takes place up and down the Gulf Coast of the U.S. and in a surprisingly diverse smattering of cities further afield, as well. Learn more in my feature story on The Best Mardi Gras Celebrations on the Coast for Coastal Living magazine.

(Photo: Infrogmation of New Orleans/CC by SA 4.0)