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The first year that Mardi Gras was celebrated on a grand scale in Galveston was 1871 with the emergence of two rival Mardi Gras societies, or “Krewes” called the Knights of Momus (known only by the initials “K.O.M.”) and the Knights of Myth, both of which devised night parades, masked balls, exquisite costumes and elaborate invitations. The first Mardi Gras in the United States was celebrated in 1703 in Mobile, Alabama, but New Orleans hosts the largest and most famous celebrations in the country. However, it is safe to say that Mardi Gras has a long history in Galveston. ABOUT MARDI GRAS. In 1840, the Galveston City Company founder, Michel Menard, hosted the first masquerade ball on the island, most probably, as a housewarming. On March 26, 1856, history was made as the first Mardi Gras ball in Galveston was held at the house. The Galveston News reported the next day that over 300 guests attended. Literally meaning “Fat Tuesday,” the Mardi Gras tradition celebrates one last time of excess before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. While it’s known for its New Orleans roots, the celebration made its way over to Galveston Island, and you may be surprised to find out how early it did. Knights of Momus Mardi Gras Parade began in 1871, and was discontinued during World War II. George Mitchell brought the Galveston party back in 1985. History of how Mardi Gras Galveston began The History of Mardi Gras in Galveston. The first year that Mardi Gras was celebrated on a grand scale in Galveston was 1871 with the emergence of two rival Mardi Gras societies, or "Krewes" called the Knights of Momus (known only by the initials "K.O.M.") and the Knights of Myth, both of which devised night parades, masked balls, exquisite Mardi Gras! Galveston is the third largest Mardi Gras celebration in the country and has a long history of festivities. The first celebration in Galveston was held in 1867, complete with a masked ball and Shakespearean reenactments! In 1871, two rival Mardi Gras societies, or “Krewes” were created. The first Mardi Gras celebration in Galveston occurred in 1867 at Turner Hall, when a group called “The Jolly Young Bachelors” invited 100 guests for “Dramatic Entertainment and a Bal Masque.”” “The initial Mardi Gras celebration was deemed a success; however, the now annual event experienced periodic hiatuses throughout its history. %PDF-1.5 %µµµµ 1 0 obj >>> endobj 2 0 obj > endobj 3 0 obj >/XObject >/Font >/ProcSet[/PDF/Text/ImageB/ImageC/ImageI] >>/MediaBox[ 0 0 960 540] /Contents 4 0 R The History of Mardi Gras! Galveston. Mardi Gras was first publicly observed on Galveston Island in 1867. Following a sabbatical imposed in 1941 by war and challenging times, Mardi Gras! Galveston was revived in 1985 by Galveston-born preservationist and developer George P. Mitchell. Mardi Gras Galveston isn’t just about parades—it’s packed with memorable events for all interests. Here are some exiting highlights to check out: Krewe of Thalasar Wreath Laying Ceremony & Second Line Procession: A traditional celebration honoring Mardi Gras history. Mardi Gras revelers in Galveston will notice some changes the City of Galveston has made as part of an effort to enhance public safety during the annual carnival celebration. The island’s 114th Mardi Gras celebration begins Friday, February 21, and continues until March 4, or Fat Tuesday. History of Mardi Gras in Galveston Mardi Gras was first held in 1711 in Mobile, Alabama as a national gala imported from France. Only later, in 1873, did this historical event appear in New Orleans. The classical colors of Mardi Gras have noteworthy meanings. Gold signifies power or purity of purpose. Purple portrays royalty or justice. Rooted in a history of innovative Mardi Gras celebrations in Galveston, the parade honors the tradition of turning everyday objects into symbols of festivity, bringing together locals and visitors for a day of joyful expression. GALVESTON, Texas (KIAH) — It’s Mardi Gras time again, and the Galveston Strand will be lit up once again as the annual Mardi Gras! Galveston events will begin on February 21. The island will Get ready for Mardi Gras Galveston 2025, Texas’ biggest and most dazzling Mardi Gras celebration! From February 21 to March 4, Galveston Island will come alive with vibrant parades, electrifying live music, masquerade balls, and high-energy street parties. One of over 20 parades to enjoy during Mardi Gras! Galveston, The George P. Mitchell Mardi Gras Award Honoree Parade takes place in the Downtown Entertainment District on Friday, February 21 @ 7pm. The awards ceremony and Party Gras! Procession precede the parade. Fri., Feb. 21 @ 5:00pm Party Gras! Procession Galveston’s history of Mardi Gras is a captivating story of tradition, culture and community. As the saying goes, “the more things change, the more they stay the same”. And that’s definitely true when it comes to Galveston’s beloved holiday. Step into the rich history of Galveston Mardi Gras! at the 1938 Menard House, the island’s oldest residence and the birthplace of Mardi Gras on Galveston Island. Featuring live music on the porch, performances by The Crescent Circus, tarot card readings by Emmy Rose, and more, this intimate and lively brunch is the perfect way to kick off the GALVESTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Galveston's biggest and brightest parade lit up the night at the 2025 Mardi Gras celebration. ABC13 broadcast live from the Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade on
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