2/28/11 - 01:47 PM by Stephanie Patrick 
Accessibility at Mardi Gras
Crowds, flying beads and road blocks are hallmarks of Mardi Gras celebrations across the state. As Louisiana prepares to celebrate Mardi Gras on March 8th, the Advocacy Center investigated options for people with disabilities to enjoy an accessible Mardi Gras.
In New Orleans, the city built an accessible viewing platform near Gallier Hall. The platform (pictured below) allows people with disabilities to view the parades without being blocked by people standing in front. Accessible restrooms are also available. Tickets are free of charge and are available at City Hall, 1300 Perdido St., Suite 1W09. Two tickets for each person with a disability and his/her companion, are available on a first come, first serve basis. At press time, tickets for the parades during the weekend of March 4th were not yet available. Call (504) 658-4015 to confirm ticket availability or for more information.
Each year, Touro Synagogue hosts accessible viewing stands for children with disabilities for several parades at their St. Charles Ave location. This year, the special viewing zone will be available for the March 5th morning parades. Space is very limited and reservations are required (free). Call Juan Gershanick or Rosanna at 504-896-2229 for more information.
In Lafayette, the city has designated several accessible viewing areas: the 500 block of Jefferson Boulevard; Vermilion at Lee; and St. Julien at Johnston.
Do you have other ideas or experiences to share? Tips for parade goers? Information on accessibility in other parts of the state? Share them at AC’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/advocacyla) or via email at advocacycenter@advocacyla.org.
Accessible Parade Viewing Platform in New Orleans