Mardi Gras beads meaning. One of the most common parade throws are Mardi Gras beads. A krewe called the Rex Organization introduced these beaded necklaces in 1921. When they were first introduced, the beads were made of glass and hand knotted on necklaces. Though they began as glass, most of the Mardi Gras beads you see thrown today are made of While seemingly simple, beads capture the collective effervescence that makes Mardi Gras magical. Their significance has evolved over generations and will continue being passed down for years to come. Conclusion. Mardi Gras beads are more than just plastic trinkets. Their colors hold symbolic meaning tied to the history and traditions of Carnival. The beads and other throws are not just random trinkets, but they actually hold a more profound meaning related to the festive spirit of Mardi Gras. Moreover, the tradition of throwing and catching beads is also about having fun, connecting with others, and collecting as many tokens of the festivities as possible to remember the experience. 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 Tracing back to European traditions introduced to Louisiana, the historical origins of Mardi Gras symbols reveal a rich cultural tapestry. Mardi Gras symbols such as masks, beads, and colors have deep-rooted connections to the traditions brought over from Europe. These symbols hold significant historical importance, dating back to the 1870s. 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 The colors of Mardi Gras beads have taken on a deeper significance, representing the city’s connection to the environment, its cultural heritage, and its economic prosperity. Mardi Gras beads have become a symbol of New Orleans’ cultural identity, reflecting the city’s rich history and heritage. 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. Mardi Gras beads are part of a longstanding tradition in the New Orleans celebration of the holiday. Often referred to as “throws,” the beads are tossed off of parade floats to the thousands of onlookers, who then add them to their Mardi Gras-themed costumes. The traditional Mardi Gras beads were made from glass and imported from Mardi Gras is an annual pre-Lent celebration and New Orleans tradition. The idea was to toss the color to the person who exhibited the color’s meaning. Beads are a good time and can really Mardi Gras throws are strings of beads, doubloons, cups, or other trinkets passed out or thrown from the floats for Mardi Gras celebrations, particularly in New Orleans, the Mobile, Alabama, and parades throughout the Gulf Coast of the United States, to spectators lining the streets. The "gaudy plastic jewelry, toys, and other mementos [are 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 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 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 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. What do Mardi Gras beads symbolize? Mardi Gras beads symbolize generosity, indulgence, and the festival’s heritage. Their colors—purple for justice, green for faith, and gold for power—reflect deeper meanings tied to the celebration’s origins. When did the tradition of throwing beads at Mardi Gras begin? 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 Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is a lively celebration that takes place before the season of Lent in many parts of the world, especially in New Orleans, Louisiana. This festive occasion is marked by colorful parades, lively music, and fun costumes. 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?
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |