Mardi Gras has been deemed the highest threat level under the Department of Homeland Security's Special Event Assessment Rating system for the first time, in response to the Jan. 1 vehicle attack on Bourbon Street that killed 14.

Following a New Year’s Day attack that killed 14, the Louisiana city known for its colorful Carnival festivities and parades is grappling with how to celebrate—and do so safely—in the wake of tragedy.

In the wake of the French Quarter terrorist attack, President Joe Biden acted swiftly to honor Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s request for the highest threat rating for the city’s Carnival season. Cantrell’s Homeland Security chief Collin Arnold says the city welcomes the SEAR 1 designation.

Baldwin Police Chief Anthony Gibson said the decision to cancel the parade was his. He cited road construction and the spate of recent shootings in the city as the reasons for the cancellation.

Catch beads and fun throws at Mardi Gras parades in the Baton Rouge area. This year, Fat Tuesday falls on March 4. In early February, local krewes will have decorative and themed floats rolling in parades.

Running Feb. 1 through March 30, Universal Orlando Resorts's Mardi Gras brings the New Orleans celebration to their Universal Studios park. Guests to the park can experience new food items and a themed parade as part of regular admission.

Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnival will be held at Universal Studios theme park from Feb. 1 through March 30. Concerts are held on select nights during that period, following the park’s nightly Mardi Gras Parade, which will feature six new floats this year as well as the traditional bead tossing.