Mardi Gras FAQs (Frequently Asked questions)

What is Mardi Gras?
The word Mardi Gras (pronounced Mar-dee Grah) and the celebration are French in origin, from the middle ages. Many think the French celebration developed from the Lupercalia ( pagan rituals),  of ancient Greece and Rome. The Catholic Church's observance of Lent brought the celebration to the Christians as a pre-lent feast called Boeuf Gras. Explorers and settlers brought this observance with them to New Orleans and Mobile. The celebration has evolved and grown since then. Technically speaking, Mardi Gras (literally translated from French the words in the printed order means, Tuesday Fat. But nouns are pronounced first in French so when corrected to English format it means, Fat Tuesday) refers to only one day, the day before lent begins (Ash Wednesday). The entire season is called Carnival.

What do the colors of Mardi Gras (purple, green and gold) symbolize?

These colors were introduced by the Rex organization during his first roll! Purple represents Justice; Green represents Faith; Gold represents Power.

What are they throwing from the floats and why?
They are throwing Beads, Stuffed toys, and various other novelties. Throwing from the floats began sporadically in the 1800's. These first throws, were often bon bons and other simple treats. People in the crowd, sometimes, threw small bags of flour, as a practical joke, which would burst on you or the float, when they hit. Doing this today will land you in Jail, if caught or somebody tells on you.       Note: They don't need to see you do it, to take you to jail, so please don't do it.

 Throws have now evolved from just candy, into whistles and other tiny trinkets for the children. Today, adults enjoy many of the throws, more than the children. The most desired throws, are those with the Krewes or Mystic Societies' emblem and theme printed on them, such as cups and doubloons. Oh yes, and BEADS!. Here in Mobile, the most crowd pleasing' throw is the Moon Pie, and in New Orleans, the most prized throw is the Zulu coconut. Be sure to check out the section on throws for more details. The throws give a Mardi Gras parade an exciting interactive experience, instead of just watching the parade, you yourself, are indeed participating in the festivities.

When is  Mardi Gras and why does it always occur on different dates?
Mobile Carnival officially begins with the Mobile International Carnival Ball in early November, and ends in April. In New Orleans, Carnival officially begins on 12th night (Jan. 6th) and ends on Fat Tuesday. The parade season in both Mobile and New Orleans begins 2 Wednesdays before Fat Tuesday with a parade(s) each day. Fat Tuesday's date depends on the date of Easter, which is also different each year. Please see the section on "future Mardi Gras Dates"  for a detailed description.

When is Mardi Gras Day for the year 2008?

Mardi Gras day in 2008 is February 5th. There are about two weeks of parades leading up to Mardi Gras Day. Mardi Gras Day (which is also called Fat Tuesday) is the last day of the Carnival season. Mardi Gras day falls on a different day each year. It is always 47 days before Easter (the 40 days of Lent plus six days from that Sunday.) Now some of you probably said," What!??????". For those that did, visit our exclusive 50 year calendar of Dates of Mardi Gras.

Who had Mardi Gras first?
Mardi Gras's beginnings are in Europe, particularly France. In North America, Mobile and New Orleans share many "Firsts" in the history of Mardi Gras. Which city deserves the most credit depends on who you ask the question to. Records from the late 1600's and early 1700's are incomplete and sometimes disputed by historians. But, the first observance of Fat Tuesday in the United States occurred in Mobile in 1699 with the founding of the Point du Mardi Gras site. However, this was not the sole reason, as many of the first organized functions (such as themed float parades and a ball with the same theme) began in Mobile. 

Now, for those who say, that Point du Mardi Gras is in Louisiana, yes it is, NOW! But then so was MOBILE, Then! This was the time that Louisiana was a territory of Louisianne which stretched from the Mississippi Gulf Coast to Canada.

  The Cowbellion de Rakin Society( CdRS ) (1831) started these traditions with the very first Mystic Organization. The CdRS held a parade in New Orleans, giving the city its first taste of a real themed float parade. Several members left the CdRS (and Mobile) and moved to New Orleans. These 6 men formed New Orleans' first organized krewe, the Mystik Krewe of Comus, in 1857. Since then, New Orleans' celebration has exploded in size and has often been the first to start. Comus even invent the many things that are standard today. Both cities deserve lots of credit, each borrowing and improving on the others beginnings through the years.

Wasn't Mardi Gras celebrated in New Orleans before the Mystic Krewe of Comus?

Yes it was! The Creoles celebrated Mardi Gras as did others, well before the Comus organization was founded. Balls, parties, and some street parades of a different nature were held during those years.   

Creoles celebrated Mardi Gras in the back streets of the city long before the float parades debuted. Long processions of horse drawn carriages snaked through the city each season with parties going on house to house. Most people then simply took their celebrations and set about roving the streets. Only when the revelry in parts of the city got out of control did the city officials call for it's end. 

I've heard about the things that go on at Mardi Gras. Is Mardi Gras an immoral event? The short answer is no.
 It's amazing what people will come up with to excuse themselves from having fun. The celebration is not about, "getting in as many sins in as possible before you have to repent and ask for forgiveness on Ash Wednesday". Mardi Gras no longer has any real religious observance. Like anything else, the holiday (it is a legal state holiday in Louisiana) consists of what you put into it.

Some people come to New Orleans and head to the French Qtr, to drink and FLASH their ,"Assets", look for easy sex, and just let their fetishes hang out. It not about that and never was. Over time and because the city has a laid back attitude a lot of things that were over looked then , are just plain, "Hard to Stop", now! Even Playboy, Inc has gotten into the act and our local authorities have almost abdicated the power to put an end to it.

   In Mobile, and other places across the country, you will have a hard time finding nudity at Mardi Gras. But both Mobile and New Orleans Mardi Gras has family oriented activities that are designed for the family to do together. Metairie, La. is also family oriented. In New Orleans, there are children's areas, and children's programs during Carnival to allow the participation of children in the festivities.

What Is a Mardi Gras Parade like?

A Mardi Gras parade is the most unique processional you will ever witness. This is the only type of processional that is , "interactive". In other words, the parade actually interacts with the crowds on the route. Usually this is how a typical parade will roll! Almost all of the Mardi Gras krewe parades begin with the King and Queen leading the parade. They are followed by many floats, which the members of the krewe ride on. This is the "interactive part". The krewe members throw "trinkets or throws" to the crowds lining the streets. The trinkets or throws can be doubloons with the Krewes insignia on them, beads, cups, etc. Many of these items become collectibles each year. The crowd scrambles for the throws while yelling "throw me something mister!"

Tell me about the Parade themes.
Parades began to be presented as stories, mythological tales, and other themes in 1840 with the Cowbellion de Rakin Society's "Heathen gods and goddesses". The parade would tell the story or fable through the images on each of the floats, beginning with the title, depiction of events in the story, then a conclusion. Today, parade themes vary as much as you can imagine. A shortage of money requires many of the newer Mystic Societies to rent floats from the older ones (parades are very expensive, and will be covered in an upcoming Webcast of "Mardi Gras Digest"). 1997's theme for the Order of Myths was "Polyphemus and the Cyclops". The founding traditions of the 1800's Mardi Gras are still strictly adhered to within the Order of Myths, a living piece of history.

Where can I find information about the parade schedule, and the parades routes?

We have posted the parade schedule for 2008 at the appropriate cities on the site simply choose which city you want and click on the bottom category. For additional information including parade routes, we highly recommend Arthur Hardy's Mardi Gras Guide for New Orleans and Mardi Gras Magazine. New Orleans natives use both these guides for the parade schedules, routes, etc. These guides are available for purchase at most of the stores around. We are thinking of starting to produce a printable guide for Mobile next year, and you'll be able to print that one online.

My neighbor is bringing a ladder? What are the ladders for?

Many people bring ladders to parades for height advantage. Some even build custom ladders to seat children in them. (Hint: many times the krewe members throw extra trinkets and throws to children on ladders.) Don't abuse the ladders however, in recent years some cities have enacted legislation to govern the erection of ladders on parade routes. If the recent rash of abuses keep reoccurring, look for the ladders to be banished from the routes!

I won't be able to visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras this year. I'd really like to be able to "see" the parades online. Will you be broadcasting them?

No, not this year. But we will be broadband Webcasting Mardi Gras parades live on the website, when we commence Webcasting Mardi Gras TV, sometime in 2008 or 2009. Please check the website frequently during the Mardi Gras season for links to other sites that will have live broadcasts.

Should I dress up to attend the parades? What should I bring?

No. You should always wear casual clothing and comfortable walking shoes to the parades. Many times your shoes will be stepped on so you do not want to wear anything you wouldn't want ruined. You may also have to park a distance from the parade route, so you'll want to be comfortable. You should bring a large bag to collect your trinkets and throws in. You should also bring extra bag with toiletries, such as tissue, and moist Handi-wipes, in case the port-a-lets are out of tissue.

I hear a lot about these walking or marching Clubs? When do they parade?

That's a favorite. The marching clubs mostly "march" early on the morning of Mardi Gars Day. We will be adding the Marching Clubs schedules to our database very soon. Keep watching for them!

I've noticed that a lot of Krewes or organizations don't parade, why?!

We could write a 215 page book to the many reasons given the public as to that, and some of the other things that the Krewes do and don't do. But suffice to say each krewe, mystic society, and other organizations, are formed for the purpose of celebrating the Carnival season their own way. This can include parading or it could not. Some were formed strictly for the balls they throw, and like the Original Illinois Club, introduction to society of the young men and women of influential families.

I really would like to ride, but getting in touch seems like such a chore? Why do they make it so hard?

I hear ya! They don't really mean too, it's just that they really don't understand sometimes. Here in the deep south, people really must get to know you before they stop dealing from a skeptical point of view. Mardi Gras Digest has begun however, to take ride requests from the general public. If you would like to ride we'll put you in contact with the proper person that would handle your request. Just click here and fill out the form.

I live in New Orleans, and just heard about some character named Joe Cain. Who is Joe Cain?
When the Civil War ended, Joe Cain saw the need to raise the spirits of the people and helped to revive Mardi Gras in Mobile. In 1866, Joe Cain masked as Chief Slacabamorinico, a fictional character from a nation of Native-Americans (Chickasaw) that were never defeated in the Civil War (and never surrendered). Chief Slac paraded on Fat Tuesday along with the Lost Cause Minstrels and others. Joe Cain, yes, a real person, (1832-1904) was initially buried in Bayou LaBatre Alabama, and was moved to the Church Street Graveyard in 1967(along with his wife). Historian Julian Lee Rayford petitioned to have his body moved there and organized the Joe Cain Procession, a parade (and full day of reveling) held annually on the Sunday before Mardi Gras. Revelers on foot are welcome to show up and join in. Groups with floats or other vehicles must register (and wait on a list to parade). It was from this the mobile celebration began in earnest in modern times.

What's the difference between a New Orleans "Krewe" and a Mobile "Mystic Society"?
After the Civil War, these organizations were the same. Mardi Gras has evolved differently in both cities, and these differences are reflected in the organizations that make up Mardi Gras, in the two metro areas. Most organizations in N.O. are named from mythology. Mobile's mystic memberships are still very secret, have waiting lists to join (membership numbers are kept relatively low), etc. New Orleans Krewes place much more emphasis in presenting large entourages of royalty in parades. When the Mystic organizations were brought to New Orleans and founded Comus, the word Krewe was coined to describe them.

Do you have any information about Mardi Gras in other cities besides New Orleans, LA?

Mardi Gras Digest is devoted to the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans, Mobile and the entire Gulf Coast. At this time, we have only a small amount of information about Mardi Gras in other cities that you can access. We are working on this in our effort to become the  most comprehensive site for the Carnival Season in the United States. For even more up to date information, you can listen and watch our weekly video Webcast on Carnival places, preparation, breaking news, and other issues. "Mardi Gras Digest", will be Webcast on every Tuesday of the week at 7p.m, beginning Nov. 30th, 2004.

How do I join a Mystic Society?
First, you must meet the basic membership requirements. Usually these include being a specific gender, of a minimum age, about 21, and of acceptable social standing. If there is an open membership slot, the organization will accept a new member. First, you have to be sponsored by a member (or 2). After that, you must be approved by a couple of secret membership committee members (who are checking you out). You will never know who these committee members are (they don't even know who the other secret membership committee members are). An executive committee then votes on your membership. Then, a general membership vote is held. Most organizations are somewhat different. The rules are set forth in the organization's bi-laws.

How do I join a Krewe?

Pretty much the same rules apply here as does the requirements for a Mystic Society. But you still can apply. Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club is accepting applications, as are Morpheus, King Arthur and others. We are working to assist the Krewes by becoming a contact point where we can accept an application and send it to them. 

What happens at those Balls (Tableau Ball Masques)?
Formal Mardi Gras Balls are held by each society. Members and invited guests are in attendance. Members usually mask, while guests attend in formal attire. A tableau (a themed skit) is presented. Call out dances, reserved dances, and general dancing takes place. Royalty are presented, along with other ceremonial traditions. Membership dues pay for the event, the food, drinks, decorations, etc. Most Balls in Mobile are now held at the Mobile Civic Center, Convention Center, Fairgrounds, and Ft. Whiting. Balls in New Orleans, are generally held at the Ernest H. Morial Convention Center.

Can I attend one of the Mardi Gras balls?

Admission to the traditional balls held is by invitation only. Most invitations are for members only and non-transferable. There are other balls that are held by certain groups, however, that you can get an invitation too by just simply asking. Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, holds it's ball every year, tickets are $135.00 each and includes all food, refreshments, and entertainment. If you wish to attend this or another ball, please forward your name, address and phone number to us here at Mardi Gras Digest.Com and we're give you a call. You will be able very soon to get invitations right here on-line.  

Help! I need a hotel room in New Orleans or Mobile. Can you help me?

 New Orleans hotels book very early during the Mardi Gras season. You will need to make your reservations as soon as possible. Please contact the hotels directly for availability and reservation information. But Keep checking back, as we grow, we will try to establish a "home" hotel that we can deal with. We do have some information about hotel availability, at this time. Please click here.

How safe is New Orleans? Can you give me some tips?

New Orleans is a large city, and just like any other large city in the U.S. you should use common sense and the proper precautions when visiting. Since the hiring of our new Chief of Police, things have calm down quite a lot from where it was. Please visit here for "survival tips."

Where can I find additional information about the history of the king cake?

The history of the king cake can be found here

I visited New Orleans during Mardi Gras and love the food! Where can I get recipes that I can make myself?

The Mardi Gras & Cajun Food Recipe Guide is posted at food TV. WWL-TV has Frank Davis eye on carnival TV show, you can find it there also. These recipes can be used when planning a Mardi Gras party or any day of the year. Recipe cards will also be available, soon for purchase at Mardi Gras Coconuts.Com  online store. Choose from Louisiana Cajun, Wild Game and Southern Cooking.

I'm planning a Mardi Gras party in my hometown. Do you have information that will help me?

Visit us for information on how to plan a Mardi Gras party. Information about adult parties, teenager/prom party, and children's party will be available, very soon.

Where can I get Mardi Gras items? I'm not from New Orleans and I can't find anything in my hometown.

Visit the online store at Mardi Gras Coconuts, soon for various Mardi Gras articles. You'll be able to find beads, doubloons, party decorations, clothing, music, posters and much more here. You may call us locally at 504-756-9456

How and where do they build all those floats?

Visit us here for information about Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World, Barth Bros and more .. Information about tours, parties and conventions will also be available soon at this website.

Is it too early to plan for next year? And even though you have explained how to find the date, I still can't. Can you please tell me when is Mardi Gras Day for 2005, and beyond ?

It's never to early to make your plans and reservations for Mardi Gras. In fact, the earlier you begin, the more choices you will have. Hotels book up very early and if you wait until it's time for the next celebration, you'll be stone out of luck, for New Orleans or Mobile. Call and set up your rooms early! I can't stress that enough.

As for the dates of Mardi Gras, tell you what. Here's a link for all the dates, for the next twenty five plus years  

Where can I find pictures of Mardi Gras?

We have posted Mardi Gras pictures on the website. Visit us soon for the upcoming gallery of Mardi Gras pictures from previous years. We however do not posts flash shots! Sorry Guys!

What is the legal drink age for New Orleans?

The legal alcohol purchasing age and the drinking age is 21,  You have to be 18 to get into most bars, although there will be some bars will require you to be 21.

You have one definition for a Krewe and other sites have a different definition of a krewe. Who knows the real definition of what constitutes a Krewe?

Web sites are popping up all over the place. I can remember when there were only about 20 sites online for Mardi Gras! Now, there are thousands out there! Over half are personal sites, and a good quarter of the rest are Krewe websites! The other quarter are people who think they can give better definitions, or better something, although sometimes I wonder what!

Mardi Gras has been going on in New Orleans for over 200 years in some form, and over 148 years in it's modern form. The Comus organization was formed in 1856 and first paraded in 1857. It was the first club to use and define the current spelling of the word "Krewe", but it was not the first,  to use the word in the real meaning. They changed the spelling, not the meaning. The word comes for the mobile usage of "Crewe".

  The list of questions will continue to grow as we get those FAQ's. Keep 'em coming !

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