During its first 100 years, New Orleans was ruled by France, then Spain, then France again, before finally becoming American. That may help explain why there's no consensus on pronouncing New Orleans. The 30,000 to 40,000 French tourists who visit New Orleans every year are surprised they don't hear much French, but still feel at home, said the French consul general, Bernard Maizaret. It's a different view than Anglo Saxon. We feel that cuisine is very important.
Music is very important.
Fine arts are very important. You could say the same in New Orleans. Mardi Gras is when the city of 1.5 million is reminded that it still has an aristocracy of sorts. Her matching collar was encrusted with stones and gold lace. She carried the organization's traditional jewel scepters, and a regal crown completed her attire.