In the old days, when travel was harder and women lived more secluded lives, the debutante season was an opportunity for young ladies to be formally introduced to society, to meet eligible young men in an approved social setting and to get their start in the social life of the community. The high point the season remains the annual Bal Masque, a traditional Mardi Gras dance and reception with costumes, beautiful gowns, kings and queens and all the rest.