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Mardi Gras is a Christian holiday and popular cultural phenomenon that dates back thousands of years to pagan spring and fertility rites. Mardi Gras (UK: / ˌ m ɑːr d i ˈ ɡ r ɑː /, US: / ˈ m ɑːr d i ɡ r ɑː /; [1] [2] also known as Shrove Tuesday) is the final day of Carnival (also known as Shrovetide or Fastelavn); it thus falls on the day before the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday. [3] Mardi Gras Experiences & Cultural Highlights. Mardi Gras is one of the most unique experiences on the planet. From costuming to one-of-a-kind customs, here are some of the highlights you need to know before you go. What is Mardi Gras Masking? Do people costume? Masking is a tradition during Mardi Gras. Mardi gras costumes are more than clothes; they turn people into living works of art filled with joy and imagination. The traditions of mardi gras masks go back to European carnival celebrations. People make detailed masks that share stories of mystery and joy. These masks range from elegant Venetian designs to vibrant New Orleans styles. A Mardi Gras, as a participant in a courir is known, may beg for a chicken or demand a san sous—a small coin for the Mardi Gras. In addition to a “capuchon”—a tall cone-shaped hat that, in medieval times, was a symbol of mockery of royalty—the revelers typically wear masks made out of a type of wire screen used to crush pecans and Mardi Gras is a festive day celebrated in France on Shrove Tuesday (the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday), which marks the close of the pre-Lenten season. The French name Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday, from the custom of using all the fats in the home before Lent. What does Mardi Gras mean? Translated to English, "Mardi Gras" means "Fat Tuesday." Mardi is the French word for Tuesday, and gras means "fat." This name comes from the custom of eating all the fatty, rich foods in the house prior to Lent in order to prepare for fasting and abstinence. So, Fat Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. BONUS: According to legend, Mardi Gras colors influenced the choice of school colors for archrivals Louisiana State University and Tulane University. They say when LSU was deciding on its colors, the shops in New Orleans had stocked up on purple, green, and gold for the Mardi Gras season. Mardi Gras is so much more special when you understand what you’re celebrating and what each tradition means to the generations of parade-goers who have stood on parade routes before you. There is a story and a purpose behind everything you’ll experience during Carnival Time – from the king cake you’ll eat to the flambeaux who light the Mardi Gras and Carnival are often used interchangeably to denote the season. The word Carnival is believed to have its origins in Latin and refers to abstaining from the eating of meat, as many Mardi Gras is bursting with vibrant traditions, and few are as iconic as attending parades, indulging in delicious and colorful king cakes and donning elaborate Mardi Gras masks. But have you ever In the context of Mardi Gras, purple signifies more than just social status; it represents the ideals of justice and fair governance. This meaning is especially pertinent considering the carnival’s historical function as a period when social hierarchies were momentarily set aside, enabling individuals from all classes to join in the celebrations as equals. Shops like Miss Claudia’s Vintage, Uptown Costume and Funky Monkey are go-to spots for Mardi Gras costumes. If you’re not feeling creative, just throw on some purple, green and gold—the History and Meaning of Mardi Gras Traditionally, rich foods such as eggs, meat, oils and butter were strictly prohibited during the 40 days of Lent. It thus became customary to eat all that remained of these foods in the house and enjoy one last feast on the day before the 40-day fast. Mardi Gras, the vibrant and joyous celebration preceding Lent, is a kaleidoscope of color, music, and revelry. From the dazzling costumes to the elaborate floats, the festival is a feast for the senses. But have you ever stopped to consider the meaning behind the iconic Mardi Gras colors? Album: 'Mardi Gras in New Orleans' Album: 'Mardi Gras in New Orleans' Mardi Gras Records mg1001 (1987) While you stroll in New Orleans You ought to go see the Mardi Gras If you go to New Orleans You ought to go see the Mardi Gras When you see the Mardi Gras Somebody'll tell you what's Carnival for Get your ticket in your hand If you wanna go Mardi Gras is French for ‘Fat Tuesday.’ Mardi Gras is the final day of the festivities known as Carnival and is celebrated in predominately Catholic locations around the world—most famously in cities such as New Orleans and Rio de Jainaro. Mardi Gras is bursting with vibrant traditions, and few are as iconic as attending parades, indulging in delicious and colorful king cakes and donning elaborate Mardi Gras masks. But have you ever The seven symbols for Mardi Gras are king cakes, Mardi Gras masks, parades, Mardi Gras throws, the fleur de lis, Mardi Gras beads, and the official colors of Mardi Gras. Head to our Mardi Gras symbols guide for an in depth look at the history and meanings behind the symbols of Mardi Gras . Here’s how to celebrate Mardi Gras the Galveston way, with parades, live music and pet-friendly costume contests. While some events are free, several of the city’s official parades and all of its concerts are held inside the gates of the Entertainment District.
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Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
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