Mardi Gras comes the day before the beginning of Lent, and is a day of feasting before the somber Lenten season begins. I is celebrated in many parts of the world, especially locations with Roman Catholic populations. In he United States it is celebrated in a narrow band that extends from Mobile, Alabama to Lafayette, Louisiana. The focus is the New Orleans area, with a secondary focus in Mobile.
Over the years things in the New Orleans area have changed. Masking is still done on Mardi Gras Day, but not to the extent of in the past. Occasionally, a visitor will be misinformed and wear a costume on a parade day other than Mardi Gras Day itself. Unless riding on a float, this will cause one to stand out. On Mardi Gras more people do not wear costumes than do, but wearing one allows one to fit in.
The problem with costumes is the weather. One year it may be forty degrees and raining, on another it might be seventy degrees and sunny. Planning a costume for Louisiana winter weather can be problematic. And, it is less expensive to not wear a costume. For large groups, dress alike, use purple, green, and gold, and you will blend right in.
Parking for parades is easier in the suburbs. Most businesses close, and allow parking in their lots. Te crowd is such that street parking within a block or two is also possible.
The parades throw beads, plastic cups, and in some cases aluminum doubloons to the crowd. Basically, if you catch it or pick it up, it is yours. And attending the parades is free!
Technically, the season starts January 6, but parades usually do not start in intensity until two weekends before Mardi Gras. At one time weeknight parades occurred every night after the start of the season until Mardi Gras Day. Now, fewer parades have caused few weeknight parades, except the day immediately before Mardi Gras.
But, no matter where ou are you can have a party and celebrate.
Mardi Gras Tablecover (golden-yellow, green, purple) Party Accessory (1 count) (1/Pkg)
Mardi Gras Comedy & Tragedy Whirls 30in. Pkg/5
12 Feather Mardi Gras Masks Costume Party Masquarade
33 inch 07mm Round Metallic Purple Gold and Green Mardi Gras Beads - 6 Dozen (72 necklaces)
Printed Mardi Gras Table Runner Party Accessory (1 count) (1/Pkg)
Mardi Gras Beverage Napkins (2-Ply) Party Accessory (1 count) (16/Pkg)
Rue Bourbon Mardi Gras 7-inch Paper Plates 8 Pack
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