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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. 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. Mardi Gras is a tradition that dates back thousands of years to pagan celebrations of spring and fertility, wearing masks, decorating floats and eating King Cake. Did you know? Rex, one of the 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 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.” All about the history behind five of New Orleans' favorite Mardi Gras traditions: krewes, masks, beads, king cake and the Mardi Gras colors. Since costumes and masks were so widespread during Mardi Gras celebrations, people of color could intermingle with white colonists and celebrate with them. During French rule, they even attended the aristocratic Mardi Gras balls held by wealthy Creole (people living in New Orleans of French or Spanish descent) merchants and farmers. Mardi Gras, the Carnival of America, is the largest masked part on the continent. The tradition of wearing masks at Mardi Gras has evolved since the late nineteenth century. Originally the use of masks was considered a diversion for poor people and the reputation of especially women who wore masks during Mardi Gras was in question. 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] 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. The tradition of wearing masks on Mardi Gras, much like the ones pictured above, dates back to the early 20th century when African-American men would wear masks as a nod to the Native Americans Mardi Gras Mask Tradition a history of mardi gras and mardi gras traditions. Masks are an integral part of Mardi Gras, but they were originally worn for reasons you might not suspect. “In the early days of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, participants wore masks to escape social constraints and allow themselves to be free to mingle with whomever The first Mardi Gras “krewe” took to the streets in 1857, when the Mistick Krewe of Comus, “a group of New Orleans businessmen, decided to invent a more civilized celebration” after Today, Mardi Gras is celebrated in many different parts of the world, each with its unique flavor and style. While the modern-day Mardi Gras celebrations may differ from their ancient predecessors, the spirit of the holiday remains the same. Mardi Gras is a time to let loose, enjoy life, and revel in the joys of community and camaraderie. The Mardi Gras parade started in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mardi Gras is a French term meaning “Fat Tuesday”, which is the day before Ash Wednesday. The first Mardi Gras parade was held in New Orleans in 1837. Mardi Gras is now a worldwide event, with parades and celebrations held in cities around the world. How did Mardi Gras traditions help communities prepare for the Lenten period? By encouraging the use of perishable ingredients before the fasting season. What element of Mardi Gras celebrations involves participants wearing masks and costumes before Lent? The festive atmosphere of Carnival celebrations. Yes, guys absolutely wear Mardi Gras masks! These masks are an integral part of the Mardi Gras celebrations, and men of all ages participate in the fun by donning these festive masks. Whether it's a simple half-mask or an elaborate masquerade creation, Mardi Gras masks allow men to embrace the spirit of revelry and mystery. But beyond the party atmosphere, this celebration has deep roots in history and faith. So, what’s the story behind Mardi Gras? Let’s dive in! Where Did Mardi Gras Come From? Mardi Gras dates back thousands of years to ancient Roman festivals like Saturnalia and Lupercalia, which were all about feasting and fun before a period of discipline.
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Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
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