Learn about the history, culture, and traditions of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, and discover 18 fun activities to enjoy during Carnival season. From attending parades and eating king cake to touring Mardi Gras World and visiting plantations, there's something for everyone. Mardi Gras comes to a close on Tuesday night, and soon, those who celebrate will exclaim “Laissez les bons temps rouler,” or “Let the good times roll” for the last time this Carnival season. Mardi Gras is truly a citywide celebration, and you’ll find everything from quirky, satirical floats pulled by horses in Krewe du Vieux (warning: the themes of this parade are definitely risque and meant for adults only), to the North Side Skull and Bones Gang who roam the streets of the Treme beginning at dawn every Mardi Gras morning. Consider them a Mardi Gras offering. Costumes Are Encouraged (and Sometimes Required) If you’re not in a wig, sequins, or at least a feather boa, are you even doing Mardi Gras right? And on Mardi Gras day wear a heavy coat, shorts, tank top and sneakers because the weather changes from winter wonderland to summer by noon.- Tamsy Kambi Despite what you might have heard, Mardi Gras actually is a family-friendly event. Image courtesy of Mills Baker via Flickr. 2. Carnival Veterans Go Long, Not Hard Mardi Gras is all about fun, vibrancy, and celebration. All you need to do is look at some of the famous Mardi Gras photos to tell that! But what actually happens during Mardi Gras in New Orleans? The revelry takes shape in the form of music, parades, balls, picnics, floats, balls, and plenty of eating and drinking. 7. Come face-to-face with a Mardi Gras Indian on Mardi Gras day. Tracing their roots back to a time when Native Americans helped shield runaway slaves, the Mardi Gras Masking Indians can be found parading down the streets on Mardi Gras day in their spectacular hand-sewn suits. 8. Take in the Bourbon Street Awards Learn how to enjoy the colorful parades, the delicious King Cake, the lively bars, and the festive parties at Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Find out the best places to watch the parades, the best bars to drink, and the best masks to admire at this carnival celebration. Mardi Gras occurs all over Louisiana, although New Orleans’ celebration is the most famous. Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) receives flights from around the world, but fair warning, tickets can get pretty expensive near Mardi Gras day. One of the top things to do at Mardi Gras is see (or even better yet — join) a parade. Costume like a boss: what to pack for Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Dress code for Mardi Gras is simple: go crazy. No costume is too wild, no notion too absurd. And no, you don’t necessarily have to wear purple, yellow, and green. Dress like it’s your last Halloween on earth. Read this: A Mardi Gras packing list so you can do Mardi Gras like a Not only will it get you into the Mardi Gras spirit but you will fit right in. Here are our tips on how to dress for the Carnival and where to get the best costumes and costume-making supplies. Practical Tips. Think about what you want to wear while visiting New Orleans during the Carnival before you pack your bags. There’s no dress code This storied recipe is the right pick for a Mardi Gras weekend brunch or a favorite dish to eat on Mardi Gras if you don't have the time for a roux and gumbo. Get The Recipe 09 of 39 thelucaszoo. Come Mardi Gras, king cake reigns above all else. "Better than bakery's! Living and eating in New Orleans for my entire life I was a bit skeptical if I could actually pull off a king cake," writes New Orleans local and home cook Laur5270, who recommends omitting the raisins to make the recipe more traditional. What do the Mardi Gras masks represent? “Wearing the mask is the custom, part of the mystique of carnival. You’re not supposed to know who is one the float throwing you gifts [beads, cups and If you are new to Mardi Gras, you'll need to know the lingo. Here is a list of common Carnival terms. Glossary of Mardi Gras Terms. Ball: a Mardi Gras ball is a special event parades host prior to rolling. They are similar to galas and often feature presentations of the royal court, dancing and costumes. Mardi Gras is a Christian holiday and popular cultural phenomenon that dates back thousands of years to pagan spring and fertility rites. Also known as Carnival or Carnaval, it’s celebrated in Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, is a time to let loose, indulge in rich foods, and enjoy festive drinks with friends and family. The vibrant city of New Orleans is the epicenter of Mardi Gras celebrations, where revelers gather to party, dance, and toast to the occasion. But what do you drink during Mardi Gras? A cool Mardi Gras combo to pull off in classic festive colors, glam this one up with shimmer boots and dangler earrings! 14. Long Sleeve Crop Top, Plaid Crop Skirt and Bustier Top A wild Mardi Gras combo to customize, go for a goth styling using platform boots and mesh stockings for an edgy finish! 15. Pattern Mesh Top and Side Ruffle Skirt Q: How do I become a Mardi Gras vendor? If you would like to sell Mardi Gras souvenirs or pre-packaged food you'll need a permit from the city of New Orleans. Prices range from $500 to $2,000 depending on whether you'll be walking or have a fixed location. Learn more about permit details. What do the Mardi Gras colors represent? According to Mardi Gras New Orleans, the holiday's colors have a meaning. Gold represents power, green represents faith and purple is for justice.
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Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
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