Nola Reporter

NEW ORLEANS — The New Orleans Recreation Development (NORD) Commission today announced it will host their 10th annual Teen Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball, as well as its annual Special Needs Mardi Gras Sneaker Ball this weekend. 

“Our motto here at NORD is ‘something for everyone,’ and with that, we want to ensure we provide services, resources and opportunities for all members of the community,” said NORD CEO Larry Barabino Jr. “We value our special needs community, and it is imperative we produce the same opportunities for them as everyone else. Additionally, the Teen Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball has become one of NORD’s signature events. We are thrilled to host a celebration of this magnitude for the young people in the City of New Orleans during Carnival Season."   

The Teen Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball will be held on Friday, Jan. 19, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., at Joe W. Brown Recreation Center (5601 Read Blvd.). Led by the NORD Teen Council, the Masquerade Ball is free and open to teens ages 13-17. Complimentary appetizers and refreshments will be available. NORD staff, volunteers and security will be in attendance. This year, teens are encouraged to wear their favorite sneakers with formal attire.   

Teens may RSVP for the Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball by visiting forms.office.com/g/16QVTt3x78. For more information on the NORD Teen Council or the Teen Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball, please visit NORDC.org/Teens, or call (504) 658-3003.    

NORD’s annual Special Needs Mardi Gras Sneaker Ball will be held Saturday, Jan. 20, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Joe W. Brown Recreation Center. Led by the NORD Youth Programs Division, the Sneaker Ball is free and open to all ages. Formal attire and sneakers are recommended but not required.      

For more information on the Special Needs Mardi Gras Sneaker Ball, please call (504) 658-3049.      

Participants at both events will have the opportunity to be exposed to a formal atmosphere and participate in an event they can enjoy safely during the Carnival season. Both events are free and will feature food, music and live entertainment.

Original source can be found here.