Because it is traditionally a time to consume rich, fatty foods before the Lenten fast begins, it is called “Fat” Tuesday. The largest and most elaborate parades, including those of Krewes Zulu and Rex, happen tonight in New Orleans, and those  “in the know” where their beads.  As they say, “Laissez le bon temps rouler!” (let the good times roll).

Dogs are not excluded from the festivities in the places alternately known as “the Paris in the South,” or “The City That Care Forgot.”  The Mystic Krewe of Barkus is a New Orleans Mardi Gras parade exclusively for dog The event which began in 1992 includes a “Royal Canine Court” in which the King of Barkus is traditionally a purebred dog, while the Queen is selected from formerly homeless dogs. The event showcases purebred dogs while highlighting adoption and rescue efforts, as well. Note that after consulting local government officials, law enforcement, and weather, the Barkus Parade has been rescheduled for Sunday, March 9th. This year’s King is Petey Benson, a Yorkshire Terrier. Queen Ruthie Sable is a Foxhound-Dalmation mix who “identifies as a noun but lives fully at a verb energy level.”  You can read more about these dogs here.