With all of the "best" designations being handed out to the Holy City, it seems only fitting that Charleston should become the next major Mardi Gras destination in the United States.

Established in 2009, the Krewe of Charleston is the only Mardi Gras krewe on the East Coast. They've brought the rich history and tradition of Mardi Gras to the Carolinas and all the states on the Atlantic with their annual Masquerade Ball.

This year's grand event, the Royal Bal Masque MMXII, was held Feb. 4 at the Gaillard Municipal Auditorium complete with costumes, music and revelry.

The ball is hosted to bring awareness to the krewe, but also to support local charities with the Mardi Gras spirit.

This year's King and Queen are King Charles II, Cpt. Brian Brennan and Queen Catherine of Braganza, Susan Marlow.

Grand Marshall is actor Tom Berenger and Grand Duke is General James E. Livingston.

Proceeds from Saturday’s ball will go to Brennan Stands Alone to aid members of the U.S. military who have suffered severe injuries while fighting in Iraq and Afhganistan. The foundation is named after Brian Brennan, a U.S. Army 1st Lieutenant who became a double amputee in May of 2008 when an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded under his Humvee in Afghanistan, killing two soldiers and a civilian and leaving Brennan in cardiac arrest with multiple fractures and a traumatic brain injury. Brennan and his family formed the foundation to help soldiers in similar situations get the care they need.

Visit www.kreweofcharleston.com to become a member and participate in year long Mardi Gras events.

Click here to see more pictures from the ball.