Mardi Gras is a colorful spectacle of floats and masked revelers, each a vibrant thread in the tapestry of Mardi Gras traditions. Discover the hidden stories behind the colorful beads, king cakes, and flamboyant parades that define this iconic celebration.
When is Mardi Gras 2025?
The next Mardi Gras season starts on January 6, 2025, and ends on Fat Tuesday (also known as Shrove Tuesday), March 4, 2025.
As a kid living in Maastricht, in the southern (and predominantly Catholic) part of the Netherlands, I loved Carnival (also spelled Carnaval). Dutch Mardi Gras is like Halloween, only infinitely better.
Carnival season begins just after 11 o’clock Sunday Mass ends, six weeks before Easter. And for three days leading up to Ash Wednesday, daily life grinds to a halt as the entire town fills the streets with elaborate costumes and festive parades.
If Dutch Carnival sounds a bit like Mardi Gras in New Orleans, it should. Both are centuries-old pagan celebrations that evolved into church-sanctioned traditions. And while Mardi Gras in New Orleans is the closest thing I’ve experienced to Dutch Carnival in the United States, there are several differences.
One of the biggest differences between Dutch Mardi Gras and the celebrations in New Orleans is the length. In New Orleans, Carnival starts before I have my Christmas decorations put away. That’s right! Just 12 days after Christmas, while kids are still on winter break, Mardi Gras celebrations kick off like clockwork on January 6th in Louisiana.
And because Carnival runs through Fat Tuesday, a date that moves around the calendar based on the phases of the moon, Carnival in New Orleans can vary in length. It’s been just under a month long (like when Ash Wednesday was February 4th) and it’s been as long as nearly nine weeks (when Ash Wednesday was March 10th). Nine weeks?!? Heck, that’s nearly as long as most American retailers have Christmas decorations in their stores, which is really saying something!
Before you head to New Orleans to devour king cake and catch purple, gold, and green plastic beads, here are the fascinating meanings behind the most recognizable Mardi Gras traditions.
Fun Fact: Mardi Gras isn’t just a New Orleans tradition! The nation’s second-largest celebration takes place in St. Louis, Missouri, where the historic Soulard neighborhood keeps the spirit alive with vibrant parades, rich Creole flavors, and time-honored festivities.
Do You Celebrate Mardi Gras?
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Where Did Mardi Gras Originate?
In Europe during the Middle Ages, Christians would binge-eat meat, cheese, eggs, and milk just before the Lenten season. Beginning on Ash Wednesday and lasting through Easter Sunday, Lent is a solemn and spiritually-reflective period that often includes ritual fasting.
Today, modern Christians (especially those who are Catholic) celebrate Mardi Gras (or Fat Tuesday) as a last chance to enjoy meat, sugar, and alcohol before giving them up during Lent.
Why are Parades Held During Carnival?
In the 19th century, Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans were so out of control that local officials threatened to outlaw the pre-Lenten celebrations. But the Mistick Krewe of Comus stepped in and saved Mardi Gras.
This secret society was founded in late 1856 and members committed themselves to creating a more organized method of celebrating Carnival. The first Mardi Gras night parade took place a few months later, featuring a torch-lit procession of elaborate parade floats, marching bands, and revelers in masked costumes.
Sage Advice: Whether you visit the Big Easy solo, family, or on a girls trip to New Orleans, be sure to visit Mardi Gras World for a guided tour of some of the most incredible parade floats you’ll ever see!
Why is the King of Mardi Gras Named Rex?
This tradition dates back to 1872 and is tied to a surprising international guest. When Russian Grand Duke Alexis Romanov toured post-Civil War America, his itinerary placed him in New Orleans at the end of Carnival. And the Big Easy seized this unique opportunity.
Shortly before the duke arrived, New Orleans newspapers announced that a self-proclaimed “King of Carnival” named Rex (the Latin word for King) would be organizing that year’s festivities. When Fat Tuesday arrived, the parade route was packed with locals who enjoyed a procession of kings, harlequins, peasants, and even a costumed version of the Russian duke, the guest of honor.
Today, Rex symbolically rules Mardi Gras. Known as the King of Carnival, Rex is a member of the Rex Organization who is crowned king due to his prominent role in the community and active participation in philanthropic and civic-minded projects.
Sage Advice: You may call him the Carnival King, King of Carnival, or the Monarch of Merriment, but never call him King Rex. Because rex is the Latin word for king, that’s like calling him King King. And repeating words during Mardi Gras in the Big Easy just cuts into your celebration time!
Why are Flaming Torches Carried During Mardi Gras Parades?
Known as flambeaux, these flaming torches date back to the first Mardi Gras parade organized by the Mistick Krewe of Comus. Originally, the torches were necessary to light the way during the night parade. But with streetlights and other modern conveniences, the flambeaux are simply part of the festivities in 21st century Mardi Gras celebrations.
What do Mardi Gras Colors Mean?
The official colors of Mardi Gras are purple, gold, and green. Once again, this tradition dates back to Russian Grand Duke Alexis’s 1872 visit to Mardi Gras. The three hues are said to be tied to these virtues:
- Purple symbolizes justice,
- Gold represents power, and
- Green stands for faith
As legend has it, the duke came bearing gifts, and his welcoming committee handed out a strand of glass beads to folks demonstrating the color’s significance.
Why is King Cake Eaten on Mardi Gras?
The Mardi Gras king cake tradition made its way to New Orleans via France. Like meat, eggs, and cheese, European Christians in the Middle Age feasted on this round cake before giving up sweets during Lent. Tasting like a cinnamon roll and looking like a braided coffee cake, today king cake is typically decorated with traditional colors like purple, gold, and green.
Hidden inside one bite of king cake is a small baby figurine representing Jesus. It is a symbol of Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, when the three kings (also known as the three wise men) visited the newborn King of Glory with gifts of frankincense, gold, and myrrh.
If you’re the lucky one who discovers the plastic baby in your bite of cake, it is generally expected that you’ll have good luck and increased prosperity in the year ahead. You may also be crowned king for the day, or at least the duration of your Mardi Gras celebration.
Why Are Mardi Gras Masks Worn?
It is generally believed that Mardi Gras evolved from pagan festivals celebrated throughout the Roman Empire. Feted at the end of December, Saturnalia was an upbeat, party-like celebration where social norms were set aside.
In order to cross-dress with confidence and escape class constraints, Saturnalia involved donning elaborate masks and over-the-top costumes to hide each reveler’s true identity. Think of it as the original Masked Singer, only without singing.
Fun Fact: Believe it or not, wearing masks, hoods, and facial disguises is typically outlawed in New Orleans. However, exceptions are made during Mardi Gras. And, if you are riding on a Mardi Gras float, by law, you must wear a mask.
Why Are Beads and Other “Throws” Tossed from Mardi Gras Floats?
It’s believed that the original Rex who ruled over Mardi Gras in 1872, when Russian Grand Duke Alexis Romanov was in attendance, tossed beaded necklaces and “jewels” to his “loyal subjects” as he glided through New Orleans on his parade float.
By the early 1920s “throws” from floats evolved into the Mardi Gras tradition we know and love today. Parade goers will be treated to all sorts of goodies and trinkets, from plastic Mardi Gras necklaces to special Mardi Gras coins known as doubloons that are unique to each Mardi Gras krewe. Some parade attendees may even go home with stuffed animals or a coveted Mardi Gras coconut. The Krewe of Zulu began passing out coconuts in 1910 because they were a less expensive throw than the traditional Mardi Gras beads.
Sage Advice: Despite conventional wisdom, you do NOT need to bare your breasts to get beads. Simply shout, “Throw me something, mister!” and may the Mardi Gras force be with you!
Fun Fact: Louisiana is the only state in the union that recognizes Mardi Gras as a legal holiday, so Laissez les bons temps rouler!
"My favorite tradition is hollering "Throw me somethin' Mister!" to get the attention of those throwing goodies from the lavishly decorated floats in the parades. Watch out, though, I once had an entire box of Little Debbie cakes thrown to me!"
Frequently Asked Questions About Mardi Gras Traditions
Learn important Mardi Gras terms and uncover additional details about this iconic celebration with answers to these frequently asked questions about Mardi Gras traditions.
What does Mardi Gras mean?
Mardi Gras is derived from the French words Mardi (Tuesday) and gras (fat) which is why the day is also known as Fat Tuesday. It occurs the day before Ash Wednesday and is typically celebrated by indulging in rich, fatty foods before Lent begins.
What day is Mardi Gras?
Mardi Gras is not fixed to a specific date but rather varies each year. It is determined by the Christian calendar, falling on the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of Lent.
Lent always begins 46 days before Easter Sunday, so Mardi Gras can occur on any Tuesday between February 3 and March 9. The exact date changes annually, aligning with the lunar-based ecclesiastical calendar that determines the timing of Easter.
Is Mardi Gras a Catholic holiday?
Mardi Gras is not an official Catholic holiday, but it has strong connections to Catholic traditions. It marks the end of the Carnival season and precedes Lent, a period of fasting in the Catholic Church. While celebrated by many, its origins are closely linked to Catholic practices.
What is Twelfth Night?
Also known as Epiphany Eve, or the day before Epiphany, Twelfth Night takes place on January 6th. It’s also the official start of the Mardi Gras season, and is aptly named because it takes place twelve days after Christmas.
What is Carnival?
Carnival, also spelled Carnaval, is a name for the pre-Lenten festivities that begin on January 6th and lead up to Ash Wednesday. If you were raised Catholic, you might associate Lent with 40 days and 40 nights of a church-imposed vegetarian diet. (And if you were raised Catholic in my house, you’ll further associate it with canned salmon made into a sub-par version of meatloaf and topped with creamed vegetables.)
What Does Mardi Gras Celebrate?
During the Middle Ages, Christians throughout Europe would eat up the rich fatty foods on hand — like meat, eggs, milk, and cheese — in the days leading up to the Lenten season. Modern Christians, especially Catholics, celebrate Mardi Gras as a last hoorah of filling food, sweet treats, and alcohol before giving up meat, forgoing dessert, and fasting over the weeks that lead up to Easter.
Where is Mardi Gras Celebrated?
Although specific traditions may vary from destination to destination, Mardi Gras is celebrated across Europe and throughout North and South America. The Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday (also known as Lundi Gras and Mardi Gras) are public holidays throughout much of Europe.
In the United States, the last day of the pre-Lenten season is not commonly recognized as a holiday, but there are a few exceptions. Mardi Gras is a state holiday in Louisiana. Just over the state line in Alabama, Mardi Gras is also a recognized holiday in Mobile and Baldwin Counties.
What should I wear to a Mardi Gras party?
Embrace the spirit of Mardi Gras by wearing vibrant, colorful attire. Traditional Mardi Gras colors are purple, green, and gold, symbolizing justice, faith, and power. Costumes and masks are popular, with beads and feather boas making great accessories. And, don’t be afraid to go bold with glitter and sequins.
Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to dance or stand for long periods. The key is to have fun with your outfit and enjoy the lively spirit of Mardi Gras!
What is a krewe?
Krewes are associations that organize parades, masked balls, and other events during Carnival. In and around New Orleans there are between 50 and 80 krewes.
What are Mardi Gras colors?
Mardi Gras colors are purple, gold, and green. The three hues are said to be tied to these virtues:
- Purple symbolizes justice,
- Gold represents power, and
- Green stands for faith
As legend has it, when Russian Grand Duke Alexis Romanov attended Mardi Gras in 1872, he handed out a strand of glass beads to the people he met who demonstrated the color’s significance.
What is a Mardi Gras Throw?
A Mardi Gras throw encompasses the array of items that parade participants toss to the crowd from their floats. These can range from the iconic beaded necklaces to unique doubloons (special coins), and even the coveted Zulu coconuts. The tradition of throwing these items is a hallmark of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, symbolizing generosity and celebration.
Revelers typically shout, “Throw me something, mister!” And despite what you may have heard, you are NOT required to flash your bare breasts for a shot at catching a Mardi Gras throw.
How do you get beads at Mardi Gras?
Securing beads at Mardi Gras is all about participation and enthusiasm during the parades. These colorful necklaces, a staple of Mardi Gras throws, are joyfully tossed into the crowd from parade floats. To increase your chances of catching them, show your excitement and engage with the float riders.
Can you recycle Mardi Gras beads?
That’s a good question! And, after crews pulled 93,000 pounds of Mardi Gras beads out of storm drains in New Orleans, it does make me wonder what sort of impact the made-in-China plastic trinkets have on the Pelican State. The answer is that Mardi Gras beads cannot be recycled. And by “recycled” I mean melted down and made into something else. However, they can be reused or upcycled.
One of the most eco-friendly Mardi Gras tips is to check out the Krewe of Arc’s ArcGNO Recycle Center in Metairie. They collect Mardi Gras throws — including Mardi Gras beads — and resell them. Shop online for all kinds of Mardi Gras goodies. You’ll find everything from basic Mardi Gras throw beads to specialty beads that extend to other holidays like St. Patrick’s Day and the Fourth of July. You can also purchase krewe throws, Mardi Gras trinkets, costume accessories, and more!
Who is the king of Mardi Gras?
Known as the King of Carnival and Monarch of Merriment, Rex symbolically presides over Mardi Gras. A member of the Rex Organization, the crowned king is typically a prominent member of the community actively involved in philanthropic and civic-minded projects.
Rather than the king’s real-life wife, life partner, or other “plus one” the Queen of Carnival is selected from the debutantes being presented that Mardi Gras season.
Both the King and Queen of Carnival are chosen in the spring, and they must keep their identities secret for nearly a year until it is revealed on Lundi Gras.
What’s Your Favorite Mardi Gras Tradition?
Have you celebrated Mardi Gras in New Orleans? What is your favorite Mardi Gras tradition? Do you want to know about a Mardi Gras tradition not mentioned here? Share your experiences in the comments section below.
What an entertaining and informative article! I had no idea of the rich history behind the Mardi Gras and the theological significance of its traditions. Great photos too.
Wow! Thank you for sharing, this is a great rundown of the history! I spend time in Cologne, Germany during Carnival and there are a lot of similarities. Thanks for sharing!
To tell you the truth, I couldn’t even guess that the Mardi Gras has something to do with the Christianity and the custom to enjoy meat, cheese, eggs just before the Lenten season. This sheds some new light on the festival, thanks. 🙂
My dad’s family is from Louisiana and sometimes I think they celebrate Mardi Gras all year lol! Between preparing costumes, floats, etc., it really is a year-round event down there. I didn’t know some of these facts though! Like how Rex became King Rex. Or what the Mardi Gras colors stood for! So interesting!
I always love these posts by you. I feel like the meaning of things often get lost and now we just look at Mardi Gras as an excuse for a party – so thank you for reminding people about WHY celebrate it! Great article.
What can I say, I’m such a nerd! 🙂
What a great read about the history behind mardi gras! It’s a surprise to know how the festival works in Louisiana. I wish I could visit that part of the States!
It’s a fun region, that’s for sure. And, oh my, what amazing food!
The post was wonderfully packet with information. I loved all the historical connections tied to Mardi Gras. As a historian and a lover of history, I find that travel opens up a whole new connection to the past and helps to explain the present. Thank you for sharing!
I always appreciate learning about the story behind cultural traditions. Thanks for sharing all of this great information about Mardi Gras. It’s nice to know the meaning behind the festivities and not just think of it as a big party season.
I would love to do Carnaval in each country!! I’m originally from Brazil, but only did Carnaval when I was 5 so I don’t really remember it!! But I’ve done it in Holland and Barbados!! Definitely need to experience New Orleans!! This was so fun to read!
I *LOVED* celebrating Carnaval when I lived in Maastricht. So much fun, right?!?!?
I had no idea Mardi Gras started so early! I always thought that since it is kind of the same, it was around the same time. And I also did not know that the different colors have different meanings. How did you learn so much about this=?
I guess because I’m a nerdy history girl! 🙂 (Plus, I was interested in the differences in Carnaval as we celebrated it in the southern part of the Netherlands when I lived there and Mardi Gras as celebrated in New Orleans.)
This is an actual holiday? Wow, that’s fantastic! I’m looking at visiting New Orleans for the first time, but I was planning on avoiding Mardi Gras week due to the crowds. You’re making me rethink that. It sure would be fun to be a part of the festivities!
You should TOTALLY reconsider! You’ll have a blast!
I never thought about the significance of Mardi Gras colors (purple, green, gold). Very interesting! Wearing masks was another tradition I had no idea the significance. Now I know why so many if not all in parades are wearing masks.
I had always wondered what the significance of the King cake was. Thank you for sharing. Here’s hoping for a baby in your bite!
Thanks! Fingers crossed it’s my lucky Mardi Gras season!
You know I am a sucker for all things New Orleans so I loved reading this post. We visited Mardi Gras World in New Oleans and got to see a lot of old footage from the original parades. It is really quite fascinating! You did an excellent job explaining the traditions of Mardi Gras!
Such a fun tradition!
I had no idea Mardi Gras had a religious background! How interesting! I unfortunately will be unable to attend this year but I’m hoping to make it next year! Great read!
Carnival is such a big deal in the Caribbean. I always thought it was just a party and had no idea that there were “religious ” meanings behind it. I’ve always wanted to go to mardigraw. We dont really have anything like it here in canada.
Yet another reason to head to the warmer weather of Alabama or Louisiana for a bit before winter is over in Canada! 🙂
I had no idea why they ate king cake! I just knew it was delicious! Haha. So interesting to read about why we have these traditions!
I’ve always wanted to go to Mardigras, This is such an interesting post about it! Learned so much