Whether you are preparing for a trip to New Orleans for the weekend or a party at home, you are probably wondering what Mardi Gras is all about.
Well, have no fear. Mardi Gras – the day and the festival – are lots of fun and the “rules” and traditions are relatively simple. If you prepare, you can have the time of your life.
Beads
Even if you know nothing else about Mardi Gras, you have probably seen the gaudy plastic beads in green, purple, and gold. Inexpensive beads and toys are thrown from the parades during the celebration.
In the last decade of the 20th century, beads and trinkets have become a means for voyeurs to get women to expose themselves in exchange for these cheap toys. Lest you think that this is a new tradition, it was first documented in 1889.
Social Clubs
There are two main social clubs that play a large part in the parades and celebration – Zulu and Rex. These clubs host balls, and the king and queen of Mardi Gras present themselves. These balls are extremely exclusive, and not even government officials are necessarily granted a ticket.
Flambeau Carriers
Many parades include these flame torches, traditionally carried by slaves so that spectators could better see the festivities. In modern times, these are more of a spectacle themselves, with the carriers dancing and participating in the reveling.
King Cake
The traditional King cake is a coffee cake, and is oblong and braided. It is iced with a simple icing and covered with purple, green and gold sugar. Each cake contains a hidden bean or small plastic baby, and custom dictates that whoever finds it must either buy the next King cake or throw the next King cake party.
One Mardi Gras organization uses the King cake tradition to choose the queen of its annual ball.
Costumes
On the official Tuesday of the Mardi Gras celebration, many people are seen wearing elaborate – or barely existent – costumes. These can be carnival themed, emulating monarchy, or basically anything, as long as it incorporates the traditional colors.
Many vendors sell over-priced Mardi Gras shirts and other articles of clothing, accessories, and Mardi Gras themed merchandise.
Conclusion
There are lots of traditions associated with Mardi Gras. It’s up to you to decide which ones you want to participate in or incorporate into your party. Just remember – if you do end up going to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, don’t get conned. Most of these traditions are free! Don’t spend your money without knowing what you are getting.