Good morning, New Orleans.

New Orleans law enforcement is boosting security ahead of Mardi Gras by teaming up with 27 agencies to add 175 deputies & a new booking bus in the French Quarter.

Sheriff Susan Hutson will mark her final Carnival, and emergency operators expect increased calls as crowds gather for Fat Tuesday.

Humane Society of Louisiana seeks homes for 15 Mardi Gras horses after a record 28 participated and 13 found homes.

Adoption must occur within days after Mardi Gras ends—only qualified persons, rescuers or sanctuaries should apply.

Actor Patrick Warburton arrived in New Orleans yesterday as Bacchus LVI, with a brass band welcome and motorcade shutdown at Louis Armstrong International Airport, and he will be fitted for his royal regalia at the Hilton Hotel downtown + join Carnival festivities including his royal ride on Sunday.

Mardi Gras creators brought magic to carnival season with vibrant parades and special rides featuring noted figures, uniting neighborhoods and sparking community pride.

Organizers say more creative celebrations + events are planned to keep the festive spirit alive in the days ahead.

Walt Leger, President of New Orleans & Company, will speak with Mayor Helena Moreno on Thursday, Feb.

26 at The National WWII Museum’s U.S. Freedom Pavilion. The conversation will highlight local business and civic leadership.

Today, WWNO's podcast explores Mardi Gras along the parade route as education reporter Aubri Juhasz explains how students bake king cakes while public health reporter Drew Hawkins highlights a Carnival Queen urging the switch from plastic to recycled glass beads — for a greener celebration.

Carnival celebrations bring high energy as parades take over from the designated route + Bourbon Street today.

Thousands join the final weekend festivities across downtown neighborhoods.

Visitors are gathering in anticipation of Mardi Gras celebrations as parades are set to roll uptown this weekend, with groups like Chaos, Babylon, and Muses adding to the festive spirit (details are still emerging).

At Mardi Gras, the Krewe of Freret debuted 1,500 biodegradable bead necklaces made by LSU students on Feb.

7, and Krewe of Tucks will toss similar eco-friendly beads tomorrow in New Orleans while other krewes offer practical throws like jambalaya mix to cut Carnival waste.

A report by the Environmental Integrity Project shows companies proposed 65 carbon capture projects and 11 pipelines across Louisiana, with high numbers in Cameron and Ascension Parishes.

Although Governor Landry declared a moratorium on new applications, already-approved projects raise safety concerns for local communities (especially around LNG terminals).

A U.S. senator criticized 41 float riders from the Krewe of Carrollton for throwing beads at police during last weekend's parade & officials said the Krewe is reviewing the incident and cooperating with NOPD.

Seven Saints players, including Cam Jordan (and six others), will ride as honorary Grand Marshals in the Krewe of Tucks parade, which will roll through Uptown at noon Saturday, Feb.

14. King Adam Lambert and Queen Virginia Helton Casey will lead the event.

Cajun Holiday Fest on Paddlewheeler Creole Queen

6-9 p.m. — Paddlewheeler Creole Queen — $140 — Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic cruise featuring live jazz, gourmet dining, and champagne.

Tom McDermott & Suzanne Ortner Concert

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Check venue for cost — Experience the rich piano traditions of New Orleans with renowned musician Tom McDermott.

Rebirth Brass Band Live Performance

9 PM – 1 AM — The Rabbit Hole — Tickets available — Experience the Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band leading the New Orleans brass band revival.

Swing Out with Rev Roderick Paulin & The Congregation

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Cost info not provided — Experience vibrant jazz music from the son of a legendary New Orleans band leader.

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers

6-8 p.m. — Smoothie King Center — Tickets starting at $19 — Catch an exciting NBA match as the Pelicans face off against the 76ers!

Natalie Prauser Concert

9 p.m. — Siberia — $12.47 — Experience the soulful blend of 60s folk and 70s outlaw country with Natalie Prauser's captivating storytelling.

Roger Lewis & Baritone Bliss

4:30-6:00 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticket information not provided — Legendary baritone sax player Roger Lewis brings his soulful sound to New Orleans.

The Enigma Variations Orchestra Rehearsal

12-2 p.m. — Orpheum Theater New Orleans — $15 for adults — Experience a behind-the-scenes look at the orchestra's rehearsal with insights from the musicians and conductor.

Love Letters by A.R. Gurney

7-9:30 p.m. — Crescent City Stage Co. — Tickets available — Experience a heartfelt exploration of love through intimate letters.

Loom Music Night

9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. — Siberia — $12.47 — Experience an eclectic night of music with Laura Fisher, Theresa Romero, and Avian TV.