Mardi Gras is a BIG DEAL down here in south Alabama! The parades started last weekend, and they continue for almost a month. Our nearest parades alternate between neighboring towns each weekend, so you can imagine we've got a lot of parade viewing coming up.

One thing that really comes in handy during Mardi Gras season is not having to hold your baby. There are several reasons why you might want one or both hands free--a big one is to block throws from hitting you and your kids in the face!

So, you think you'll make the experience easier by bringing a stroller. But you forgot! The view of the parade from a stroller is terrible! Now your little one is demanding you pick her up so she can see the floats. And did you forget what a pain in the neck it is pushing a stroller through the crowds? Trust me. I'm from NYC. I had to deal with strollers in crowds a lot. It's really annoying.

Now you're holding your child, navigating a stroller through a sea of wild people, and you're getting pelted in the face with beads and moonpies. Sound like fun?

My Mardi Gras suggestion is: get a wrap, buckle carrier or ring sling, and wear that baby to the parades. You will LOVE how easy it is to hold your baby close, defend the both of you, snack and sip... plus she might even fall asleep!!

So depending on the age of your baby you have some great options, including:

Beco Gemini is great for newborns and little babies.

Girasol Mysol is great for little babies and toddlers. Totally adjustable.

Stretchy Wraps are great for newborns and little babies.

Tulas are wonderful for babies 6 months to 24 months.

Toddler Tulas are great for kids over 2.

Woven wraps are also fabulous for all ages.

And Ring Slings are great for all babies--though if you have a bigger baby, you may be better off with a two-shoulder carrier like a wrap or Tula for extended wearing.

So this Mardi Gras, wear that baby and "laissez les bon temps roulez"!SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave