Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans could be cancelled as severe storms rumble through the South, bringing strong winds and the threat of tornadoes on Tuesday.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — As the sun rose over New Orleans on Tuesday, a crowd gathered in the historic Treme neighborhood, their faces covered in skeletal masks with protruding antlers — the first revelers determined to celebrate Mardi Gras Day, like they always have.

Mardi Gras gives people the opportunity to celebrate before the Lenten season, where many give up habits for 40 days. Here's a closer look.