It's almost February in New Orleans, which means we are reaching the peak of our year down here- Mardi Gras. It officially became Carnival season on January 6th, and there's no denying that the air is a little different between Three Kings' Day and Ash Wednesday. From schools to billboards to grocery stores, Mardi Gras influences are definitely a strong and visible presence. Drastic changes are taking place in our nation and world as we speak, but I can confidently say that people across the spectrum of personal beliefs will assert that New Orleans is its own entity and will remain so through these changes, regardless of whether they are welcomed or dreaded. Here are some Mardi Gras staples that we can all look forward to, no matter what is happening in the rest of the country:

1. King Cake

It's time for that plastic baby Jesus-filled confection we all love so much. My favorites so far have been from Dong Phuong Vietnamese Bakery, Randazzo's and (surprisingly) Whole Foods. Some genius also had the idea to invent king cake vodka. Lucky Player has the flagship variety, and Taaka makes a solid competitor. There are local ice cream shops that boast a king cake scoop or shake, and Smoothie King even does a smoothie that you can "nutritionally enhance." There's literally a fix for everyone. Bring it on.

2. Parades

I'm spoiled to the insider view of parades because I've been dancing with The Organ Grinders for the past four seasons, but I also love just going and watching, taking pictures of the floats and catching all the things. You truly never know what will fall into your hands. Coconuts, shoes, toilet brushes, purses, spears, potato chips, plush cows, you name it.

3. Playing Dress-Up

You can wear whatever you feel like wearing to a parade, an event, or just to put gas in your car, and nobody will question it or view it as abnormal even for a second. It kind of brings you back to that feeling you had if your mom let you wear your favorite superhero or princess costume to the store when you were a kid. Except you are doing it as a responsible adult who makes responsible decisions.

4. Community

People who have never experienced New Orleans during Mardi Gras usually don't realize how close-knit and family-oriented it is. The spirit is amazing, and it is a true symbol of our strength as a city of natives, transplants, and people who share a profound love for New Orleans regardless of where they hail from.