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Learn about the history and significance of Mardi Gras symbols, such as beads, colors, parades, throws, masks and king cakes. Find out how to catch beads, what they mean and how they relate to the religious and cultural traditions of Mardi Gras. Learn how the colorful beads became a symbol of Mardi Gras and how women flashing for them became a controversial practice. Find out the origin, meaning and alternatives of this tradition and how it affects the locals and visitors. The typical colors of Mardi Gras beads, also called “throws,” were established in 1872. The traditional colors of the beads are purple, green, and gold, which represent justice, faith, and Learn the history and symbolism of the colorful beads thrown from parade floats at Mardi Gras. Discover the rare and special beads that are coveted by catchers and how beads act as currency and souvenirs. Learn about the history and meaning of Mardi Gras beads, coins, cups, and other trinkets thrown from floats in New Orleans and other Gulf Coast parades. Find out how to get them, what they symbolize, and how they relate to the Christian season of Carnival. Float riders toss beads, cups and doubloons to fans and revelers in the 2013 Krewe of Bacchus Mardi Gras Parade on Feb. 10, 2013, in New Orleans Skip Bolen—Getty Images Beads and Throws Learn about the colors, symbols, and traditions of Mardi Gras beads, and how they are tossed and collected during parades. Also, discover the environmental concerns and eco-friendly alternatives of these festive items. The meaning behind Mardi Gras beads is steeped in symbolism. The colors of the beads have significance, with gold representing power, green representing faith, and purple representing justice. These colors were chosen because they were the colors of the flag of the Russian Grand Duke Alexis Alexandrovich Romanoff, who visited New Orleans in 1872. The throwing of trinkets to the crowds was started in the early 1870s by the Twelfth Night Revelers, and is a time-honored expectation for young and old alike. Read more. The Mardi Gras that locals grew up with, enjoyed and love is occurring in every other part of New Orleans and the surrounding suburbs - not in the French Quarter. The large, traditional Mardi Gras krewes who bring you the "Greatest Free Show on Earth" do not even parade through the Quarter because there is a size restriction on floats in that area. Mardi Gras is a Christian holiday and popular cultural phenomenon that dates back thousands of years to pagan spring and fertility rites. Other lasting customs include throwing beads and other Mardi Gras Krewes are social organizations or groups that put on parades, balls, and other events during the Carnival season leading up to Mardi Gras. Krewes are a significant part of Mardi Gras celebrations, organizing and participating in various festivities, including elaborate parades featuring floats, costumes, and throws (items tossed to In this article, we’ll delve into the meaning behind the colors of Mardi Gras beads, exploring their origins, symbolism, and significance in modern-day celebrations. The History of Mardi Gras Beads. Mardi Gras beads have their roots in the medieval European tradition of throwing flowers and other decorations during Carnival celebrations. Modern Mardi Gras beads often feature flashing LED lights, fiber-optic elements, and a wider range of vibrant colors. The traditional Mardi Gras color palette of green, gold, and purple is still often seen on strands of beads, but usually alongside other eye-catching hues. What’s New in Mardi Gras Throws? Sadly, many bystanders caught in this crowd will never return to Mardi Gras, because they don't realize they did not experience the "real" Mardi Gras. The flashing for beads and related behavior does not occur in other areas of the city. 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. Mardi Gras masks are more than just festive accessories—they carry a rich history and cultural significance. Every detail, Mardi Gras color and design tells a story, and the artists who craft The true meaning of the famous Mardi Gras beads begins with their traditional colors, which we also owe to the Russian Grand Duke Alexis. During his visit in 1872, the newly founded Krewe of Rex Beads Beyond Mardi Gras: Year-Round Meaning. Although Mardi Gras is the most prominent time to flaunt bead necklaces, their significance extends beyond the festive season. In New Orleans, bead necklaces are also associated with other events and occasions such as Saints football games, music festivals, and various parades throughout the year.
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Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
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