Costumes, beads give way to ashes in New Orleans

The Hardy Fowler King of Carnival greets parade goers as the Rex Parade moves through the central business district of New Orleans, Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012. This is the last day of the Mardi Gras celebration ending at midnight, after a day long celebration of parades, marching groups and people in costumes. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)