Parades have been rolling all weekend on both banks of the river and both sides of the lake.

Temperatures in the 30's and 40's, with winds making it feel colder, couldn't stop the celebration.

We found big crowds braving the coldest air of the year yet to catch beads and party in the streets.

People said a blast from the Arctic can't stop the celebration.

"Hell no... man it's Mardi Gras.  You gotta come out here and party," one reveler told WWL First News.

Others said, "'Cause it's Mardi Gras."

"It's never too cold for Mardi Gras."

"It's for the kids."

"My toes are numb, but it's ok."

"It only comes once a year, so you gotta make the best of it."

"It's cold, but it's bearable."

Click here for parade schedules and much more Mardi Gras coverage...