The carnival season in Lake Charles, Louisiana, starts with the Twelfth Night celebration, where the royal courts of more than 50 krewes are introduced. The season continues through the Fat Tuesday celebrations on February 25, culminating with the Krewe of Krewes Parade.

These celebrations may sound similar to the ones happening in New Orleans at the same time, but the festivities in Lake Charles — the second-largest Mardi Gras festivities in Louisiana — have their own charm and appeal. While the focus in New Orleans is primarily on the parades, Lake Charles hosts events you won’t find in NOLA, including a royal gala open to the public, a fun chicken run, and a day dedicated to children.

Read Jill’s story at Travel Awaits.