New Orleans takes Mardi Gras seriously, with traditions including king cake and parades beginning in January and lasting for weeks until the actual holiday itself. Here's everything to know. This year, Mardi Gras, which translates from French to "Fat Tuesday," is on March 4.

The Carnival season, or Mardi Gras season, officially begins on Epiphany, Jan. 6, and lasts through Fat Tuesday.

Parades on Mardi Gras day have been canceled due to the dangers posed by extreme winds that could reach 60 mph in the New Orleans area on Fat Tuesday.

Severe weather is threatening the celebrations in New Orleans, causing parade cancellations amid safety concerns.

Officials are rushing to reschedule Mardi Gras celebrations and warning revelers against brining umbrellas and tents as powerful storms with a threat of tornadoes are expected to strike Louisiana and