What is the History of Mardi Gras? Mardi Gras originated in New Orleans the day Iberville stood on our land in 1699. Since then, balls have become a tradition of the season to represent members of society. From the past to the present, Mardi Gras is full of traditions. Mardi Gras balls began in the 1700s and still exist today. You can visit New Orleans year round and get a taste of Mardi Gras via the museums and festive atmosphere. You can even buy beads and feel like you just left a parade. (Local’s tips – Don’t buy beads during Mardi Gras season – you’ll get plenty at the parades. New Orleans takes Mardi Gras seriously, with traditions including king cake and parades beginning in January and lasting for weeks until the actual holiday itself. The term "Mardi Gras" is commonly used to refer to the entire Carnival season, but Mardi Gras (a.k.a. "Fat Tuesday") is actually just a one day, pre-Lent party. When is Mardi Gras? However, the reduced temperatures and many cultural events still make fall one of the best times to visit New Orleans! Visiting New Orleans In Spring. Ahh, springtime in the Big Easy. There’s nothing like it. Comfortably warm weather in the low 70s to mid 80s brings the most major of festivals: Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Best Place to Stay for Mardi Gras. During Mardi Gras, (or any time you visit New Orleans, really) you’ll most likely be staying in the French Quarter. The French Quarter is the oldest and most historic neighborhood in New Orleans, and it is often considered the heart and soul of the city. Since 2001, the Krewe of Muses is an all-female group that has brought joy and art to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, with its parade on Thursday before Mardi Gras in Uptown. The signature throw of these ladies is a cup in the shape of a high heel shoe , designed each year by a local member of the community. 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. 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! In many areas, however, Mardi Gras has evolved into a week-long festival. Mardi Gras 2025 will fall on Tuesday, March 4. New Orleans Mardi Gras . The first American Mardi Gras took place on 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. 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!
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