One of the best things about Mardi Gras, IMO, has always been the ability to just walk up and enjoy the festivities. That's tough to do in New Orleans, especially at the Super Krewe parades because of all the spots that are claimed.
I live in Slidell, and we probably have about 7-10 parades that roll each year. The "big" one is the Selene, which rolls tonight. There are campers, cars, and other vehicles, chairs, etc - that have been strategically placed in claimed spots for this parade. In Slidell. Where the crowds are 4 deep at best. Lmao.
I think it's ridiculous and takes away from the fun and freedom to just walk up and enjoy yourself. Now, it's not likely that you're always going to be standing right up front if you're very late getting there, but still, the roping off and battling for public space that you make personal on a temporary basis is crazy.