The event, known as Bluesday, is now in its fourth year and has proven a huge hit with our fanbase Stateside.

More than 150 Chelsea followers representing 25 different supporters’ clubs descended on Louisiana to enjoy the carnival atmosphere of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, with elaborate parades, live music and creole cuisine at the centre of the festivities.

Of course, football was front and foremost, too! After a viewing area for the parades had been secured in the early hours of Saturday morning, supporters descended on the Prytania Bar ahead of our game against Aston Villa, with the below photo captured at half-time.

A Chelsea podcast was recorded live and a signed Gianfranco Zola shirt was raffled off to help raise money for the families of the terrorist attack in New Orleans at the start of this year.

After the game, the revelry continued late into the night with Blues fans from across the country bonding during one of the world’s most famous festivals.

‘I wanted to create an event for American fans,’ says Dylan Polk, who came up with the idea four years ago.

‘Something that would be Chelsea themed but with a proper New Orleans twist. I could never have dreamed we would have had this much participation!

‘If you want to experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans and you’re a Chelsea fan, come to Bluesday!’

Roy Welsh, President of The Crescent City Blues of New Orleans, added: ‘One of the things that proper American supporters crave is an atmosphere resembling the halcyon days of ‘Chelsea here, Chelsea there’.

‘This event was created to combine that rollicking spirit of Chelsea supporters with the majesty of New Orleans during Carnival season.’

You can find out more about Bluesday on the Carefree Louisiana website or their Instagram page.