mardi-gras-carnival-fun-facts

Mardi Gras, celebrated in New Orleans, is a colorful spectacle. It is a very popular event, but hey, if you think that you know everything about it, then think again. There are quite a few hidden secrets that are not known to everyone. Ever give it a thought about the various concealed highpoints that bring the Carnival to life? Worry not! We will bring you some of the fun facts that have hidden themselves from the common public. Read on!

Mardi Gras Lasts A Season

Yes, Mardi Gras is not a day's affair. Instead, it lasts an entire season, commencing on Twelfth Night (January 6) and culminating on Fat Tuesday.

Colorful Ladders with Seats

On parade days, colorful ladders with seats can be witnessed at St. Charles Avenue. This exercise allows the children an unhindered view of the spectacle.

Different Theme by Krewes Each Year

Krewes participating in the parade always come up with a different theme every year. Some of them are very finicky and keep their themes a complete secret till the parade gets going.

"Throw Me Something, Mister"

Quite a lovely tradition, isn't it? Items have been tossed off floats since at least 1871 when, during the Twelfth Night Revelers parade, a masker dressed as Santa Claus aboard float No. 24 hurled gifts to the crowd. Rex started using medallions instead of trinkets in 1984. These medallions today are represented by today's doubloons: aluminum and anodized in different colors.  Throw Me Something, Mister is roared to catch all the throws at Mardi Gras parades.

Top Throws of the Season

Krewe of Iris sunglasses, Zulu coconuts, Muses shoes, etc., are some of the most popular "throws" of the season. The crowd goes all-out in their pursuit to catch these. Some also come up armed with colorful posters and butterfly nets to catch the attention of the float riders and the throws they hurl at the crowd.

Mardi Gras is Not A Commercial Event

The carnival spirit makes the event stand out. A city ordinance in Orleans Parish has banned corporate sponsorship. The krewes and riders bear all the expenses of the event.

Beads on The Trees

Tree-lined at St. Charles Avenue are laden with beads, adding to the spectacle by the time Fat Tuesday comes along.

Handing of the Keys

Tradition has it that on Mardi Gras Day, the Mayor of New Orleans passes on the city's key to Rex, the king of Carnival. 

 

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