What is mardi gras

History and Origins

Mardi Gras has roots stretching back to medieval France and Rome. The celebration traveled to North America with French and Spanish colonists, becoming firmly established in New Orleans in the early 18th century. The first documented Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans occurred in 1703. The tradition evolved from a simple street celebration into the elaborate festival recognized worldwide today, incorporating influences from African, Caribbean, and American cultures.

What Mardi Gras Means

The term "Mardi Gras" translates to "Fat Tuesday" in French, referring to the tradition of eating rich, fatty foods before the austere Lenten season of fasting and sacrifice observed in the Christian calendar. The celebration marks the final day before Ash Wednesday, which begins the 40-day period of Lent. This religious context, while less emphasized in modern celebrations, remains the historical foundation for the festival's timing and traditions.

Traditions and Customs

Modern Mardi Gras celebrations are characterized by distinctive traditions and customs:

• Parades: Elaborate processions featuring decorated floats, marching bands, and costumed performers
• Throws: Parade participants distribute beads, doubloons, cups, and other trinkets to spectators
• Costumes and masks: Masquerade balls and street masking traditions allow revelers to assume alternative identities
• Music and dancing: Jazz, zydeco, and brass band music soundtrack the festivities
• Food and drink: King cakes, beignets, jambalaya, and specialty cocktails are consumed throughout the season

The Krewes

Krewes are the organizations that design, build, and operate the elaborate parade floats. These social clubs range from traditional, invitation-only krewes to community-based organizations. The oldest krewes include the Mistick Krewe of Comus (founded 1857) and the Rex Organization (founded 1872). Krewes often choose themes for their annual parades and select royalty, including a King and Queen, to reign over their events. This structure has become central to organizing the Mardi Gras festivities.

Modern Celebrations Beyond New Orleans

While New Orleans hosts the most famous Mardi Gras celebration, other cities observe the tradition. Mobile, Alabama, has hosted Mardi Gras celebrations since 1703. Galveston, Texas, celebrates with parades and festivals. Even international cities with historical connections to French, Spanish, or Catholic traditions, such as Venice, Italy, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, observe carnival celebrations with similar themes of masquerade, music, and revelry during the pre-Lenten period.