Record crowds expected for New Orleans Mardi Gras
February 15, 1999
Web posted at: 4:51 p.m. EST (2151 GMT)
Related story: Black, white Mardi Gras 'kings' to meet formally for first time
(CNN) -- The Presidents Day weekend is expected to make for a record Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Police have prepared for as many as 2 million revelers over the three-day holiday weekend.
Mardi Gras, the final day of the festival, falls on Tuesday, meaning many out-of-state tourists only had to take one day off work, due to the holiday weekend. In New Orleans and several other Louisiana parishes, Tuesday is an official holiday.
Last year 1.8 million people came to New Orleans for the festival, according to police.
Valentine's Day has also figured into the festivities this year, with romantic themes such as "Love Me Tender" and "Puppy Love" prominent in parades.
There may well be some swooning Monday night, too. The Krewe of Orpheus is presenting actress Sandra Bullock as one of its celebrity guests in its much-anticipated annual parade. Last year, comedian Drew Carey did the honors.
By tradition, the krewes -- social groups which put on the parades -- shower crowds with beads, cups and fake coins. The krewes pay for their floats and souvenirs. It's estimated parade-organizers in New Orleans spent about $9 million on trinkets last year.
Associated Press contributed to this report.
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