Laissez les bon temps rouler! Mardi Gras is still a go, according to New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, opening the festive season that leads to the world famous street carnival.

After an official 2021 pandemic hiatus, Carnival normalcy returned to the Louisiana city on Thursday (January 6) – the traditional start of the season as familiar events began unfolding early in the day.

During Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s morning Kings’ Day news conference, which according to NOLA.com was held among oversized float decorations at Kern Studios’ Mardi Gras World, she sliced a purple, green and gold pastry ring and savored her first bite. Cantrell noted it was especially sweet since last year parades were forbidden because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Without a doubt, we will have Mardi Gras in 2022,” she said to applause of krewe captains, costumers and others in attendance.

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A medieval-themed procession celebrating Joan of Arc’s birthday then reportedly set out at 6:45 p.m.

At her news conference, Cantrell said New Orleans’ nation-topping vaccination rate has made it possible to celebrate Mardi Gras safely.

“We know that Mardi Gras and our Carnival season is good for our soul,” the mayor said. “While we will have our Mardi Gras 2022, we will always do what is best for our bodies as well. … Let’s do everything that we know is necessary to keep our people safe.”

Watch some of the festivities below.