New Orleans bounces back with Mardi Gras

New Orleans showed that it is well on its way to recovery after celebrations kicked-off for the annual Mardi Gras festival.

The partying began on February 11th when thousands of residents and visitors lined the streets of New Orleans.

The main party begins on February 18th, with the celebrations lasting for ten days before the final bash on Fat Tuesday, February 28th.

This year's festivities demonstrate the city's attempts to put the devastation of Hurricane Katrina behind it, with calls to postpone the partying for a year falling on deaf ears.

Revellers on February 11th did not miss the chance to reference the Hurricane, however, taking a swipe at the politicians and bureaucrats many people hold responsible for the destruction of New Orleans.

The first parade, entitled C'est Levee, mocked the failure to maintain the city's levees, the collapse of which exacerbated the storm damage, Reuters reports.

This was followed by floats themed around Buy Us Back Chirac, referencing the days when France ruled Louisiana, and Corpse of Engineers, referring to the engineer corps who built the ill-fated levees.

One torch-bearer told Reuters: "We're coming back baby. We've got to bring the city back - we must celebrate our traditions and this is one way to do it."

The final day of festivities will be broadcast live on Good Morning America, for a special show starring Britney Spears.

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