Mardi Gras and Carnival have long been the marquee events in New Orleans, with the first recorded parade taking place in 1837. Attracting hundreds of thousands of people each year, these festivities trace their origins to French traditions—Mardi Gras translates to "Fat Tuesday" in French. Carnival officially kicks off on January 6th (Epiphany) and unfolds over several weeks, beginning with elaborate, invitation-only balls hosted by krewes (private clubs), where debutantes are introduced to society. The excitement builds in the final weeks, leading up to Mardi Gras, with the famous street parades filling the city with colorful costumes, floats, and lots of music.

Built in the early 14th century in Norman Gothic style, Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri, one of the symbols of Palermo, bears witness to a multifaceted history as both a tribunal and prison under the Inquisition from 1600 to 1782. Today, it serves as the headquarters of the University of Palermo, offering visitors a glimpse into history through its marvellous lecture halls adorned with intricate 14th-century wooden ceilings. The Inquisition Museum within its walls unveils the poignant narratives of prisoners through haunting graffiti and artworks, etching their stories onto the very cells that once confined them.

One of the finest examples of Medieval architecture in Palermo, the church of Saint John of the Hermits (Chiesa di San Giovanni degli Eremiti) is famous for its red domes and architectural design that was greatly influenced by the Arabs during the 12th century. This was originally a mosque that was later converted into a Christian church dedicated to Sicily's hermit monks. Walk along the pretty garden of regional plants and the ruins of the cloister.