With Mardi Gras celebrations under way, the city of New Orleans is ramping up security measures in response to the heightened threat level following the New Year's Day attack on Bourbon Street. Law enforcement agencies at the local,

This comes ahead of the first big weekend of parades, as well as the recently granted SEAR 1 rating for Mardi Gras.

The promise from authorities for more security threatened to conflict with the city’s anything-goes sensibilities, and some changes were evident.

Known for its spectacular parades, floats, marching bands, throws, and King cake, Mardi Gras is the biggest celebration in New Orleans.