1. It’s illegal to mount on a parade float without a mask on Mardi Gras. 2. Continuing wearing masks on Ash Wednesday is regarded a rude gesture and a sign of mockery of the Lenten season. Mardi Gras is derived from the French term ‘Fat Tuesday’ which is also known as ‘Shrove Tuesday’ and falls on a Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. 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 masks in particular originated in ritual celebrations. New Orleans has been celebrating Mardi Gras for hundreds of years, and is the largest masked party in North America. In the beginning, masks worn during Mardi Gras allowed wearers to escape society and class constraints. Modern Trends in Mardi Gras Masks. As Mardi Gras continues to evolve, so too do the styles and designs of the masks. Modern trends in mask-making reflect the creativity and innovation of contemporary artists. Some current trends include: 1. Sustainable Materials: With growing awareness of environmental issues, many mask-makers are opting for Venetian masks are some of the most popular and recognizable, and it is obvious that Mardi Gras draws inspiration from them. There are even entire stores in Louisiana dedicated to masks, most notable of which being Maskarade in New Orleans. Located only a minute away from the St. Louis Cathedral, it is home to a huge selection of Mardi Gras masks. Originally, Mardi Gras masks were used to conceal identities and encourage social mingling during these lively events. By the 18th century, masks became integral to Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans, allowing you to escape societal constraints and engage freely in the festivities. Wherever Mardi Gras is celebrated, the mask is key. Behind the best masks, they can’t tell whether you are laughing or crying. They can’t tell how absolutely drunk you are. The mask helps erase consequence. “Riders want folks to say, ‘Well, I didn’t see you on Mardi Gras!,’” claims Iota Louisiana mask-maker Jackie Miller. Mardi Gras masks provide the freedom to hide behind, or embrace, the creature of our choosing, real or made-up—even, in James R Creecy’s words, “manbats from the moon.” By Anthea Gerrie. October may seem a little early to start planning Mardi Gras costumes, but not in Venice, Italy. Back in the day, the rakes of La Serenissima could hardly wait for October 5, the first day they were allowed to put masks on in the run-up to their version of the pre-Lent celebration they call Carnevale. One of the most iconic symbols of Mardi Gras is the decorative mask. Masks have been worn during Mardi Gras celebrations for centuries, adding an air of mystery and excitement to the festivities. In this fun activity, your kids can create their own Mardi Gras masks using traditional colors and decorations. Materials Needed: Blulu 12 Pcs Mardi Gras Masquerade Mask Paper Masquerade Masks Carnival Prom Venetian Masks Half Retro Masquerade Mask Mardi Gras Christmas Costume Women Party Supplies 3.3 out of 5 stars 1,431 700+ bought in past month To uncover the fascinating world of Mardi Gras masks, we spoke with third-generation float masker Jonathan Bertucceli and Arthur Hardy, the mastermind behind the award-winning Mardi Gras Guide From lavish Gras party extravaganzas to intimate Mardi Gras masquerade soirées, these masks are the ultimate accessory for the stylish male reveler. Craftsmanship and Quality of Mens Mardi Gras Masks. Meticulously crafted with premium materials and attention to detail, our men's Mardi Gras masks are a testament to superior craftsmanship. The History behind the masking of the Mardi Gras Indians is an extremely rich one. "If I had a heart attack at 92, I'd still mask. In New Orleans, you don't need a reason to do what you do, you do it because that's the way it is!" - Larry Bannock, President, New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian Council 24Pcs Mardi Gras Masks Bulk Mardi Gras Mask Metallic Gold Purple Green Masquerade Mask Carnival Mask Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball Costume Party Supplies,Mardi Gras Decorations for Women, Men and Kids 4.5 out of 5 stars 7 Whatever the reason, men who wear masks for Mardi Gras are sure to have a good time. Masks like those found at Mardi Gras Supplies are extremely rare and can be ordered in a variety of sizes. There are feather and feather masks , ceramic and rhinestone masks, satin masks, and so on. Bulk Mardi Gras Masks - (pack Of 50) Carnival Masquerade Mask For Women And Men And Kids Party Mask Costume For Party Decorations, Feather Mardi Gras Decorations Supplies & Mardi Gras Party Favors 4.7 out of 5 stars 892 Mardi Gras (UK: / ˌ m ɑːr d i ˈ ɡ r ɑː /, US: / ˈ m ɑːr d i ɡ r ɑː /; [1] [2] also known as Shrove Tuesday) is the final day of Carnival (also known as Shrovetide or Fastelavn); it thus falls on the day before the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday. [3] TOC hide 1 Why You Should Wear Mardi Gras Masks 1.1 Express Yourself Stylishly 1.2 Embrace Anonymity with Freedom 1.3 Connect with Tradition and History 1.4 Reignite Your Inner Child 1.5 Create Lasting Memories 2 How Do I Choose The Suitable Mardi Gras Mask For My Outfit? 2.1 Match Your Outfit’s Colors 2.2 Consider Mask Size 2.3 Think About Mask Style 2.4 Materials Matter 2.5 Comfort is Key The masks of Mardi Gras, however, are more inspired by Venetian carnival celebrations and other European traditions. Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville was a Canadian explorer who founded the first French settlement in Louisiana near New Orleans, and subsequently the creole people would have masked balls.
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() |