FEBRUARY 2026 ISSUE

Welcome to your February 2026 ANTIGRAVITY.

We open with an invitation to find true Mardi Gras magic, enter authentic and dedicated Aquarius season, invoke our stern Catholic grandmother to make a bed properly, create a Carnival care plan, reflect on what we pass on to our kids, and visit the art studio of Magda Boreysza. MaCCNO breaks down the City vs. DJ Budget controversy, Jane Place updates us on the fight for Ms. Gloria’s community garden, Alex Rawls discusses how Lisbon Girls sell heartache, and we welcome Alt Scene NOLA’s Elisa Gomez to cover Lyla George’s album release party. Our Close Encounters column features a cat-eyed musician near Jackson Square and more (send us your own close encounters through our ANONYMOUS Google form or at [email protected], a place for missed connections. All email addresses will remain confidential. Don’t be a creep).

Megan CW investigates sustainability, tariffs, and the true cost of Mardi Gras throws; Senior Editor Holly Devon speaks with the founders of (Bertolt) BrechtFest about singing in dark times; and Associate Editor William Archambeault sits down with Suplecs to talk about their upcoming album, three decades as a band, and 25 years of their famous Mardi Gras Day gig at Checkpoint Charlie’s.

A parade of comics, photos, reviews, crossword puzzle, poetry, and tarot reading complete this festive issue. Have a safe and happy Carnival!