Mardi Gras is a time for people to come together to enjoy and celebrate the parades and festivities. The New Orleans streets are flooded with crowds of people from all over the world.

According to Travel Lasker, there are at least 1.4 million people who visit New Orleans each year for Mardi Gras. Typically, when there’s a major event going on near Mardi Gras season, that number increases.

However, after the attack that happened January 1, 2025, when a male drove a truck through the crowded streets of Bourbon Street resulting in the death of 14 people, one of which is, Martin “Tiger” Bech, brother of former LSU football player, Jake Bech.

With this attack happening and Mardi Gras being around the corner, the number of visitors in New Orleans this year could possibly decrease.

Some LSU students gave us further insight on if they will be attending Mardi Gras in New Orleans this year.

“But after recent events it’s just kind of nerve wracking to go to all of the other ones,” said Crystal Killien, a LSU student.

While some students aren’t too sure on if they will be going, others still do plan on it, but will be taking extra precautions.

“I wanna be aware, you know what I’m saying, or like not partying too hard ‘cause you know, it’s lots of danger out there,” said Ledarrion Brown, a LSU student.

Although Mardi Gras is a time to have fun and enjoy the celebration, safety should always be a priority. Some extra safety measures that can be taken are keeping an eye on your belongings, being aware of your surroundings, and staying with the people you arrived with.

Staying safe can help ensure that you can enjoy the festival to the fullest.