A quiet celebration on South Street

Broken beer bottles, damaged news vans, shattered car windows and storefronts marked the chaos on South Street of Fat Tuesdays past in Philadelphia.

But that was 10 years ago.

Last night was different, with revelers calm - even if they were slightly tipsy - as they walked through the streets with bright-colored beads draped around their necks.

Since the chaotic scene on Feb. 27, 2001 - when more than 80 people were arrested in a scene of debauchery and mayhem that caused about $30,000 in damages - police have stepped up their efforts to keep South Street calm for the start of Mardi Gras.

Last night, there were at least 10 officers on each block and patrolmen pacing back and forth. A thick line wrapped around the corner of Fat Tuesday near 5th and South streets.

"It's not the same event on South Street," said Fat Tuesday owner Rich Frank. "It used to overflow into the entire street; now that's not the case."

Frank said he increased security, although he wasn't expecting any violence.

Sean Snyder, 24, stared at the less than packed streets and described it as "dead."

"Usually South Street is busy and popping," Snyder said. "I'd rather be in New Orleans. People like to get loose and don't like to have officials around."

Lt. Joseph Bologna, from the South Street ministation, said there were slightly more people lining the streets last night compared to last year due to the warm weather.

"We just want people to have good clean fun," Bologna said.

As of 10 p.m., police said there were no disturbances and no arrests to report.