Mardi Gras in New Orleans: what to eat, drink and do. From king cakes and costumes to parades and parties, here's what to know about Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Wednesday January 22 2025. What is the History of Mardi Gras? Mardi Gras originated in New Orleans the day Iberville stood on our land in 1699. Since then, balls have become a tradition of the season to represent members of society. From the past to the present, Mardi Gras is full of traditions. Mardi Gras balls began in the 1700s and still exist today. New Orleans comes alive during Mardi Gras in ways that are impossible to capture until you’ve seen it with your own eyes. The vibrant parades, dazzling costumes, and infectious energy create an experience that's truly one-of-a-kind—but, let’s be honest, it can also overwhelm first-timers. This guide includes tips on things you can do in New Orleans during Mardi Gras 2025, when Mardi Gras 2025 takes place, key parade schedules, Mardi Gras viewing locations, tips on finding accommodation during Mardi Gras, and more! This post is based on our personal experiences of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is arguably the best party you'll find in the United States. Every year over a million people travel to New Orleans to join in the fun during Carnival season, which begins on January 6, known as Epiphany or Twelfth Night, and lasts until Mardi Gras or "Fat Tuesday." The essence of Mardi Gras lies in its parades. Each parade, from little walking krewes to large processions with elaborate floats, follows a different theme, displaying the originality and energy of New Orleans. Notable parades to watch out for include: No Mardi Gras experience is complete without These krewes date back to the 1800s and are credited for establishing the Mardi Gras traditions still occurring today in New Orleans. The Krewe of Rex is one such group that represents the oldest of the lot, dating back to the year 1872. Typically, Rex parades take place on the day of Mardi Gras, and the King of Rex is the official King of Grandstands. If you want to be as close to the action as possible but don’t want to stand in crowds, then booking into one of the grandstands is an excellent idea.. When it comes to figuring out where to watch the Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans, you won’t be surprised to learn that the grandstands are highly popular. Mardi Gras is a Christian holiday and popular cultural phenomenon that dates back thousands of years to pagan spring and fertility rites. It's most famously celebrated with parades in New Orleans Most locals refer to Mardi Gras as the final two weekends of the celebration, when most of the parades and events take place. When to Visit for Mardi Gras in New Orleans. You can visit any time during Carnival (between January 6th and March 4th, 2025) to experience parades and festivities. If you are interested, now is the perfect time to contact a Mardi Gras Krewe to inquire about riding on a float. Many krewes are open to new participants, provided you are able to make a financial commitment. New Orleans was established in 1718 by Bienville. By the 1730s, Mardi Gras was celebrated openly in New Orleans, but not with the parades we know today. In the early 1740s, Louisiana's governor, the Marquis de Vaudreuil, established elegant society balls, which became the model for the New Orleans Mardi Gras balls of today.
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