Besides their are a lot of people with little are no clothes on and thats not for children to see. So never make a bet because their are a lot of cons out their, thats how they make their living. Wear pants with pickpockets in mind, carry your money in different pcokets and let every one in your party carry cash in case you get seperated, and make sure you have and ID of some kind at all times. New orleans is noted for towing away a lot of cars during mardi gras, and the sign are so trickie that even I don't understand them. The best think you can do is WALK and leave your car in a hotel garage or parking lot, which will be hard to find on that day.
Some people go the night before and try to find a parking spot and sleep in their car.
So be carefull because the fine is unreal. And if you want to save a little money bring your own stuff to drink and eat because I think they mark the price up on that day. Their are parades every where, so its kinda hard to get around if you are new in town. I think you can get around better in the Metairie and Kenner area if you are driving your car. But if you want to see Bourbon St , you must be in New Orleans, their you will see sights like you never seen before.