Mardi Gras History and Traditions
Learn about the famed celebration's cultural roots and traditions
Mardi Gras is so much more special when you understand what you’re celebrating and what each tradition means to the generations of parade-goers who have stood on parade routes before you. There is a story and a purpose behind everything you’ll experience during Carnival Time – from the king cake you’ll eat to the flambeaux who light the parades at night.
New Orleans King Cakes
A look inside the history, traditions and culture around the seasonal treat.
Mardi Gras Balls
Some of the most glittering spectacles of Mardi Gras happen behind closed doors at grand balls thrown by krewes for their members and lucky guests.
Mardi Gras Indians (Black Masking Indians)
Discover a brief history of the unique and historically rooted culture of Mardi Gras Indians (also known as Black Masking Indians) in New Orleans.
Twelfth Night
Twelfth Night marks the beginning of Carnival season, Mardi Gras, in New Orleans. Here are the best things to do from parades to king cake.
Mardi Gras Past & Present
Mardi Gras has been celebrated in New Orleans since the explorer Iberville first set foot here on Mardi Gras Day 1699.
Mardi Gras Flambeaux
Lighting up various parade routes, keeping eager spectators warm and carrying out a beloved Mardi Gras tradition are none other than Flambeaux carriers.
Social Aid and Pleasure Clubs
Strutting and jumping and high-stepping beneath their decorated parasols – blowing whistles and waving feathered fans – New Orleans social aid and pleasure clubs unify communities…
The North Side Skull & Bone Gang
Past the crowds and balconies of Bourbon Street, Mardi Gras Day has started the same way since 1819, with a neighborhood tradition as unexpected as the city itself.
Origin of the Mardi Gras Doubloon
Caught an oversized coin at Mardi Gras? Get to know the history of this Carnival currency.