Mardi Gras, the name itself sounds festive and fun. A festive air has always been associated with Mardi Gras, though through the years the fun and frolic have surpassed the founders early plans.
This year Mardi Gras begins on Tuesday February 17, a date worth noting on your calendar.
Parades have already started in January and continue through February 16. One of the most informative sites for daily happenings at Mardi Gras is found at Mardi Gras Events
The history of Mardi Gras dates to the early Medieval Europe. When a group of French-Canadian explorers led by Bienville, arrived miles south at what is now New Orleans, When the explorers realized the date was the eve of the festive holiday, they named the spot Pointe du Mardi Gras.
Bienville also established Fort Louis de la Louisiane, now known as Mobile. The 1st Mardis Gras was celebrated at Fort Louis de la Louisiane in 1703.
Secret societies were formed and parades were held to signal the coming Fat Tuesday,which marked the beginning of lenten meat fast.
By the 1830s processions of masked celebrators were accompanied by elaborately decorated carriages and horseback riders. It was shortly after that masked balls were introduced.
What to Collect at Mardi Gras
Beads and Throws
During the parade krewe members on decorated floats throw trinkets to the parade watchers. These trows have become quite collectible and include doubloons, beads, cups, homemade trinkets, and toys. What is thrown is up to the imagination, creativity, and historical roots of the krewe members.
Learn about the various krewes and their beliefs at Mardi Gras Krewes
Masks
Everyone wears a mask on Fat Tuesday. Float riders are required by law to wear masks.
Masks originally allowed differences between class cultures to be disguised.
Ephemera
Mardi Gras creates an abundance of paper, Ephemera that can be collected and valued for its significance to a particular Mardi Gras event.
Till Next Time, Stay Well, Stay Happy
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