The Truth About the Purple, Green, and Gold of Mardi Gras. Apparently, most of New Orleans is wrong about the origin of Mardi Gras colors. Yes, they’re purple, green and gold. And in 1892, the Rex parade theme "Symbolism of Colors" gave meaning to these colors. Purple Represents Justice. Green Represents Faith. Gold Represents Power. Origins of the Mardi Gras Colors. The colors of Mardi Gras – purple, green, and gold, can be found as early as 1872 at a carnival organized by the company Rex for a Russian aristocrat’s arrival. Rex has held parades in New Orleans for 148 years and continues to be its most prominent parade organizer to date. Theory 2: New Orleans Family Ties . According to New Orleans legend, the Mardi Gras colors were first established in 1892 by the Rex Organization, whose members chose the purple, green and gold theme based on their personal ties to Russian nobility. Purple, green and gold were the heraldic colors of the Romanoff dynasty, the royal house of Russia. There are three Mardi Gras colors to represent a flag with three colors. According to the site Mardi Gras New Orleans, when local historian Errol Flynn Laborde researched the 125th anniversary of The colors traditionally associated with Mardi Gras in New Orleans are purple, green, and gold. The colors were first specified in proclamations by the Rex organization during the lead-up to their inaugural parade in 1872, suggesting that balconies be draped in banners of these colors. Whether in New Orleans, Rio, or elsewhere, the colors of Mardi Gras are a symbol of community, creativity, and excess, reflecting the joy and revelry of this beloved celebration. Recap: Key Points. The colors of Mardi Gras – purple, green, and gold – have their roots in the French tradition of using colors to symbolize the Christian faith. The vibrant colors of purple, green, and gold are now closely associated with Mardi Gras celebrations around the globe, but they symbolize much more than just festive decorations. Their deep-rooted significance dates back to 1872 when the Rex Organization, one of the leading Carnival krewes in New Orleans, first brought them into the celebration. The colors purple, green, and gold have become an iconic symbol of Mardi Gras celebrations across New Orleans. Though the palette was chosen originally by Rex in 1872, the traditional trio has taken on rich meaning aligned with faith, justice, and power. Mardi Gras Colors. In 1872, Rex, the king of Carnival, proclaimed the official colors of Mardi Gras to be purple, green and gold. While Arthur Hardy believes they were probably chosen simply because they looked good together, Rex assigned a meaning to the colors in his 1892 parade titled Symbolism of Colors: Purple represents justice, green stands for faith, and gold signifies power. Mardi Gras, the vibrant and exhilarating celebration that sweeps through New Orleans and beyond, is a kaleidoscope of color, music, and revelry. But beyond the dazzling costumes and infectious rhythms, there lies a deeper significance woven into the very fabric of this festive tradition. Big Chief Demond Melancon wears his Red Cloud suit amongst other members of Mardi Gras Indian tribes [+] during Mardi Gras 2014. In February 2021, the usual bustle of New Orleans’ Canal With Rex, Zulu, doubloons, flambeaus, and king cake, Mardi Gras may sound confusing, but we’ve created the ultimate guide to help you understand all things Mardi Gras. Book your trip and head on down to New Orleans for the greatest and most historic celebration on earth. Apparently, most of New Orleans is wrong about the origin of Mardi Gras colors. Yes, they’re purple, green and gold. And in 1892, the Rex parade theme "Symbolism of Colors" gave meaning to these colors. If you have ever visited New Orleans for Mardi Gras, or celebrated the holiday in general, you might have noticed the colors purple, green and gold are everywhere! You will find these colors in full display on everything from Mardi Gras parade floats to the most delicious special food of Mardi Gras, the king cake . 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. 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. Founded in 1933, the Krewe of Mid-City is the 5th-oldest continuously parading organization of the New Orleans Mardi Gras season. Often called "The best day parade in Mardi Gras," Mid-City has gained a reputation for having themes dedicated to children and for having some of the best bands in Mardi read more » The Historical Roots of Mardi Gras Colors. The origins of the Mardi Gras color scheme can be traced back to the 18th century, when the first organized krewes, or social clubs, began to emerge in New Orleans. These krewes, inspired by the European tradition of Carnival, sought to establish their own identities and traditions. Mardi Gras in New Orleans Came from a Secret Society. Mardi Gras krewes, has been participating in parades since 1872 and established purple, gold and green as the iconic Mardi Gras colors. While Mardi Gras is no doubt one giant party, its roots trace back to New Orleans’ French Catholic heritage. Blending Pagan and Christian customs, Mardi Gras symbolizes indulgence before the
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() |