Kathy Miller Stone just happened to join the parade.
John Engelsman got a military commander's "attention," but not in a good way.
A quick-change artist caught Jay Thibodeaux's eye, while Henry J. Ferguson III's future wife caught his.
We asked readers for humorous Mardi Gras stories (PG-rated, of course), and here are our favorites:
Although it isn't particularly funny, Ferguson's touching Carnival tale is perfectly appropriate for another holiday this month, Valentine's Day.
Here's hoping you'll make more funny Mardi Gras memories this year.
"My daughter, Erin, and I were on our way back from Austin, Texas, on Mardi Gras morning several years ago, when I needed a cup of coffee. We swung into Lake Charles on the main street and as we passed the campground where floats were arranged, the lead police car pulled in behind us and the floats followed. Not being able to exit because of all the setups in the cross streets, we led the parade for 2½ miles, giving the queen’s wave from our van. Many are probably still wondering who we were, why there were no decorations on the van, and why no beads were thrown from our vehicle."
— Kathy Miller Stone, Baton Rouge
"In early 1970, I was a U.S. Army infantry soldier recently returned from Vietnam. I decided to go to Mardi Gras to try to erase some of those war memories from my mind. We were standing on St. Charles (Avenue) when the parade came to a stop right in front of us, a military band in full uniform halted and their commander ordered them to stand at ease. I was rather beered up when I got the not-so-bright idea of testing my military command voice. 'BAND, ATTENTION,' I yelled and over half the band came to attention. I glanced up and saw the actual commander glaring in my direction. I began to beat a hasty retreat when I got lucky and the parade started moving again."
— John Engelsman, Baton Rouge
"We were on a chartered bus trip to New Orleans' Mardi Gras. The bus arrived in the parking lot near the parade route. I was in the rear of the bus and waiting for everyone to exit the bus. While waiting, I noticed a person exiting a Ford Mustang across the lot. She was wearing a long gown and opened up her car trunk. She proceeded to change all of her attire at the rear of the car, all while being entirely discreet with the help of the long gown. Needless to say, she entertained those who were still in the bus watching."
Jay Thibodeaux, Baton Rouge
"After completing high school in Birmingham, Alabama in 1958, I had made plans for a fun time in New Orleans visiting my cousins for Mardi Gras. And so, I left my cares behind headed for the city that care forgot.
"With no car of my own and a small bankroll, I hopped aboard the old gray bus. My intent was to join the crowd that partied 'round the clock. I was invited by my cousin to a preliminary party for the group. It was practice for the big day for all the group and I had given no thought to finding a girl.
"I never had dreamed about finding a N'awlins girl but there are always chances. At the pre-Mardi Gras party there she was … great looks, beautiful eyes and hair, a figure that I couldn't believe. We started 'dating' the next day (steady), which was sometimes long distance (Auburn to New Orleans) and now after 66 Mardi Gras, we are still together. Mardi Gras for me was the party of my life and what a wonderful life we have had."
Henry J. Ferguson III, Baton Rouge