This year, there's new 2noticeable 3spectators.

"It's a lot of police presence. It's everywhere. Just at our hotel, I mean, at every single corner."

Following the deadly New Year's terrorist attack, for the first time in Mardi Gras history, the celebration is a 4SEAR 1— one of the highest 5Homeland Security 6designations.

"7Alongside NOPD and Louisiana State officers, we also have FBI and Homeland Security working with us to 8ensure public safety."

Some people on Bourbon Street finding comfort in the 9adjusted security.

"This is my very first time here, so I'm really enjoying it. So far, it's very peaceful. I feel very safe. I see the Army presence all around, so I feel very safe today."

What¡¯s remained 10consistent is the 11determination and passion of the people that make Carnival and all of the 12spectacle that comes with it happen. While honoring the victims of the New Year's attack, some see this as a similar moment of healing to nearly 20 years ago after Hurricane Katrina.

"Really, Carnival is a celebration of life, and it's a celebration of people and community. And I think we're showing that that is 13by far a much more powerful force here than one individual that wanted to harm 14for the sake of harming people."