Since it was the night before Mardi Gras, he named the landing area "Point du Mardi Gras". In 1703 the first Mardi Gras was celebrated at the small settlement of Fort Louis de la Mobile. In the 1730s Mardi Gras became a popular celebration in New Orleans. Originally it was celebrated with a large dance called a ball. “Mardi Gras represents a vibrant celebration of life and community, where people come together to enjoy and embrace the joyous spirit of the festivities. Exploring the symbolism behind the colors of Mardi Gras can provide children with a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance of this unique celebration.” Mardi Gras wasn’t referred to as “Carnival” until 1781. New Orleans floats are traditionally known as tableaux cars. Mardi Gras meaning of beads: Mardi Gras “throws” (like beads) started in 1870. The first beads were necklaces made of glass beads and thrown into the crowd. The official colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green, and gold. Mardi Gras food ideas include gumbo, red beans and rice, king cake, beignets, po’boys, bread pudding, and jambalaya. 9. Design Mardi Gras Masks. Prompt students to tap into their creativity by doing Mardi Gras crafts such as masks. Students will enjoy celebrating Fat Tuesday by designing a cool Masquerade-style mask. This Ducksters: Holidays for Kids: Mardi Gras Website is suitable for 1st - 9th Grade. Kids learn about Mardi Gras. The history and facts about this holiday which is huge in the city of New Orleans. Mardi Gras, with its vibrant hues, jazzy rhythms, and rich history, is a cultural spectacle that invites both merriment and learning. Originally tied to Lent’s approach, this event is steeped in deep traditions and holds symbolic significance that extends far beyond parades and festivities. Through Mardi Gras activities, students can explore history, art, science, and Mardi Gras is a beautiful blend of ancient traditions derived from the pagans and Christians with a more modern artistic expression. The themes and cultures are just as diverse as the population of the city of New Orleans. These unknown facts about Mardi Gras were just a window to the whole excitement and extravaganza. Mardi Gras Indians may be one of the most mysterious aspects of New Orleans Mardi Gras, particularly for visitors to the city. Tribes were formed by African American communities who were excluded from traditional parades and krewes, and they typically poke fun at krewe royalty and governing structures. The origins of Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras traces its roots to ancient Roman festivals like Saturnalia, which involved feasting and revelry. With the advent of Christianity, these traditions were adapted into Carnival—a period of indulgence before the austerity of Lent. Mardi Gras specifically refers to the day before Ash Wednesday, when people Mardi Gras is always the final Tuesday of the Carnival season. Although Carnival season always begins on the same date, January 6, Fat Tuesday is always the Tuesday that falls 46 days before the Easter holiday. For example, Mardi Gras 2024 is on Tuesday, February 13th. Mardi Gras 2025 will take place on Tuesday, March 4th. 18. This craft encourages kids to dream big and create wild, imaginative designs. All you need are basic supplies like markers, glitter, and feathers to get started. Whether for Mardi Gras or summer celebrations, these masks will be a hit with kids of all ages. Make this craft. Mardi Gras Pom Pom Headband Craft Click on the Mardi Gras krewes below for further information about the krewe and to see their usual route for each parade. Please note: Events and activities are subject to change without notice. Stay tuned to the site for further info. Fun Mardi Gras Activities to Try in Your Class. Help students understand the Mardi Gras holiday, from its rich history to the global traditions and celebrations with some classroom activities. The History of Mardi Gras. A great way to kick-off your Mardi Gras celebration is to have students dive into the history of the holiday. Click on the Mardi Gras krewes below for further information about the krewe and to see their usual route for each parade. Please note: Events and activities are subject to change without notice. Stay tuned to the site for further info. Best Mardi Gras Parades for Kids Most parades will offer kids the sense of wonder that comes with seeing massive floats bedecked with flashy colors, bright lights, and astounding sculpture work, plus kids love the festive costumes and endless amount of beads and trinkets that surround the masked riders on the float. Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) is a festival held the day before Ash Wednesday, signifying the end of the Carnival season and the start of Lent. Many cities (especially those with large Catholic populations) like New Orleans are famous for their Mardi Gras. During Mardi Gras, almost everyone takes part in celebrating with lavish parades and parties The 2025 Mardi Gras season is just beginning, and Coastal Mississippi is packed full of fun parades and events perfect for incoming visitors. Come along with us as we celebrate the Carnival season! Laissez les bon temps rouler –– "Let the good times roll!" 1827 The first Mardi Gras is celebrated in New Orleans, Louisiana. 1879 The artificial sweetener saccharin is discovered. 1951 22nd amendment to the US constitution is ratified limiting Presidents to two terms. 1974 People magazine is published for the first time. Famous Birthdays: 272 Constantine (Roman Emperor) Mardi Gras Ash Wednesday: March Women's History Month Read Across America Day (Dr. Seuss Birthday) Saint Patrick's Day Pi Day Daylight Saving Day: April Poetry Month April Fools' Day Autism Awareness Day Easter Earth Day Arbor Day: May Physical Fitness Month May Day Cinco de Mayo National Teacher Day Mothers Day Victoria Day Memorial Day: June Fun Facts About National Freedom Day. The symbols of National Freedom Day include the wreath and the Liberty Bell. In 1863, before the 13th amendment, Abraham Lincoln gave an executive order called the Emancipation Proclamation freeing many of the slaves.
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |