You don't have to visit the Big Easy to go big for Mardi Gras. From Alabama to Washington, D.C., check out these 14 places to join the fun outside of New Orleans.

The first ever food event is called Taste of New Orleans and will give guests access to some of the city's most notable chefs for a cooking show and conversation.

Crescent City resident Leslie Pariseau finds a complex but resilient community where no idea is too far-fetched.