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Though pre-Lenten Mardi Gras balls and parties were held in New Orleans as early as the mid-1700s, the first documented parade in the city did not occur until 1837. This first parade more resembled a procession of revelers in costume than it did the large, organized parades of today. Mardi Gras is about music, parades, picnics, floats and excitement. It's one big holiday in New Orleans! Revelers know to wear costumes or at least dress in purple, green, and gold, and adorn themselves with long beads caught from the floats of previous parades. Mardi Gras History and Traditions Learn about the famed celebration's cultural roots and traditions. Mardi Gras is so much more special when you understand what you’re celebrating and what each tradition means to the generations of parade-goers who have stood on parade routes before you. New Orleans Mardi Gras traditions. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is more than just a party—it’s an unforgettable experience that draws a staggering 1.4 million visitors each year. But what makes The History & Traditions of Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras has been celebrated in Louisiana since the 18th century, brought by French settlers. Today’s traditions stem from European carnival customs mixed with local culture, creating a uniquely New Orleans spectacle. Distinctive traditions, such as elaborate parades, extravagant costumes, and the exchange of throws, make Mardi Gras in New Orleans a truly one-of-a-kind event. The festival has a profound impact on local businesses and community life, boosting the economy and bringing people together in celebration. Among the lesser-known Mardi Gras traditions, the North Side Skull & Bones Gang rises bright and early on Mardi Gras Day to go door to door and wake the people of Tremé, spreading a message of peace. The tradition dates back to 1819 and has roots in African spirituality. Bone up on trappings, traditions and symbols of Mardi Gras — and find out why this civic ritual best exemplifies the cultural richness of New Orleans. Mardi Gras Music Mardi Gras music , like Christmas music, is not so much a style as it is an aural milieu comprised of various forms and genres. The History of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is an event steeped in tradition and history. It dates back to the late 17th century when the city was under French colonial rule. Since then, it has evolved, incorporating elements from various cultures that call the Crescent City home. Origins and Evolution of the Celebration The Mardi Gras traditions show off New Orleans’ rich culture. Get ready to be wowed by the creativity and passion that make this celebration so special! The Rich History Behind Mardi Gras Celebrations. The history of Mardi Gras is a captivating story that spans centuries and continents. It started as a simple feast before Lent in medieval Europe. 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 Mardi Gras balls were exclusive events closed off from most people outside of New Orleans society until this krewe revolutionized the event. In 1949, Edward Brennan Sr. created the krewe, a carnival Ball open to tourists. 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 is about music, parades, picnics, floats and excitement. It's one big holiday in New Orleans! Revelers know to wear costumes or at least dress in purple, green, and gold, and adorn themselves with long beads caught from the floats of previous parades. 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. Everything you need to know about Mardi Gras, including updated parade routes, traditions, the best places to get Mardi Gras beads, masks, king cakes and more! Everything you need to know about Mardi Gras, including updated parade routes, traditions, the best places to get Mardi Gras beads, masks, king cakes and more! The heavenly treat of New Orleans, king cakes pack flavor and Carnival history all in one delicious bite. Dive into Mardi Gras king cake tradition with New Orleans & Company. Everything you need to know about Mardi Gras, including updated parade routes, traditions, the best places to get Mardi Gras beads, masks, king cakes and more! Mardi Gras in New Orleans revolves around the Krewes — the organizations that create the parades and events that define the season. There are hundreds of Krewes in New Orleans, each with its own history, traditions, themes, parade types, and signature “throws.”
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Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
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