by Brandon Robert and Helen Young

Bounties and beauty converged on the main drag of Mardi Gras Friday night. The Krewe of Hermes once again set the bar for float design and execution high, with their parade of "The Theatrical Baroque." Meanwhile, Le Krewe d'Etat went to the Dictator's Reading Room for a series of satirical spins, while Morpheus went to the movies.

There's a zero percent chance of rain,  so pack light for Hermes, Krewe D'Etat, and Morpheus. Bring a jacket, it might get into the low 50's tonight. Stay with NoDef for your weather forecasts throughout Carnival.

There's little time to nurse a Muses hangover, as Carnival parades get cracking once again down St. Charles Ave. on Friday night. Look for the award-winning splendor of Hermes, the biting satire of Le Krewe d'Etat and the co-ed conviviality of Morpheus. Details and route info:

Start your Friday off with the Greasing of the Poles on Bourbon Street! If you’re parading tonight, plan ahead! Check out the Krewes and their routes. On this day in 1947, Louis Armstrong played Carnegie Hall. Now, more ways kickoff Mardi Gras weekend! More post-parade listings coming this afternoon.

In anticipation of the predicted mid-Mardi Gras monsoon, Friday Uptown parades will roll 30 minutes early, according to the powers that be. The Krewe of Hermes will now start rolling at 5:30 p.m., followed by Le Krewe d'Etat at 6 p.m. and Krewe of Morpheus at 6:30 p.m. According to the National Weather Service, tonight's forecast includes a chance of light rain, with heavier downpours moving in after midnight. The forecast is less encouraging for tomorrow's daytime marches.

Before the Krewe of Hermes rolls on St. Charles tonight, the old-line Mystics will emerge from their morning meal to give the French Quarter some Carnival treats. As part of an annual tradition, krewe members adorned in Hermes ties and having throws in hand are set to leave brunch for the annual Walking Parade. Once they depart brunch, krewe members will meet the St. Aug Marching Band and others at St. Louis and Royal Sts., then proceed down to Bourbon handing out throws and well-wishes for Mardi Gras along the way. Once at Bourbon, the krewe members disappear into the crowds, only to resurface on floats at sundown.