Following a New Year’s Day attack that killed 14, the Louisiana city known for its colorful Carnival festivities and parades is grappling with how to celebrate—and do so safely—in the wake of tragedy.

Mardi Gras has been deemed the highest threat level under the Department of Homeland Security's Special Event Assessment Rating system for the first time, in response to the Jan. 1 vehicle attack on Bourbon Street that killed 14.

In the wake of the French Quarter terrorist attack, President Joe Biden acted swiftly to honor Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s request for the highest threat rating for the city’s Carnival season. Cantrell’s Homeland Security chief Collin Arnold says the city welcomes the SEAR 1 designation.

Baldwin Police Chief Anthony Gibson said the decision to cancel the parade was his. He cited road construction and the spate of recent shootings in the city as the reasons for the cancellation.

Baldwin Police Chief Anthony Gibson said the decision to cancel the parade was his. He cited construction coming to the Baldwin area and the spate of recent shootings in the city as the reasons for the cancellation.

Catch beads and fun throws at Mardi Gras parades in the Baton Rouge area. This year, Fat Tuesday falls on March 4. In early February, local krewes will have decorative and themed floats rolling in parades.