Airfare Advice for Mardi Gras??

Hey Guys- Just thought I'd post to see if any of you have any tips or advice when it comes to securing airline tickets from Los Angeles to NOLA for Mardi Gras... I'm a native, but haven't been to MG in over 5 years. Going with a buddy, we're thinking of leaving Thur or Fri Feb 15 or 16 and returning Sun or Mon 18 or 19. The ticket prices I've seen so far make it undoable- Was thinking of going for the first weekend- 9th-12th, but from what I understand the Carnival season has been shortened and it wouldn't be worth our while; maybe someone could enlighten me on that, and any airfare info.... Thanks.