Any info on what either of these are like would be great! Are they worth the steep price tag? Are both bring your own food and drink? Do they start very early in the evening? Around what time do the parades roll into the convention center? Would you have a better view of the parade at these events than on the street (provided you haven't staked out a front row spot on the street)?

Are they geared primarily young party people? I am is NOLA with my mum for Mardi Gras and thought this might be a fun way to spend an evening. She is in her 60s but very young at heart.

Thanks for an advice you might have for us. We can't wait for our first trip to NOLA and Mardi Gras!