Mardi Gras

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Mardi Gras 2009 is February 24, 2009

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Mardi Gras in New Orleans is viewed throughout the world as a wild and crazy party, which by
some standards, is out of control. However, the history of Mardi Gras offers much less
debauchery. Undeniably one of the most unique celebrations there is, the history of Mardi Gras in
New Orleans can be traced back to 1699. Mardi Gras has survived Spanish rule, a wartime
suspension and violent behavior in the 1840's and 1850's. The Mardi Gras celebration began with
Pre-Lenten masked balls and festivals. The first parade did not take place until 1837 and the
organizations known as "Krewes" were originated from a group known as Comus in 1857. Comus
also began the customs of the secret Carnival society, having a parade with unifying theme with
floats, and having a ball after the parade.

Mardi Gras itself means "Fat Tuesday", which can fall February 3 to March 9. The date is always
set 47 days prior to Easter Sunday. The Mardi Gras season begins on January 6 which is the
twelfth day after Christmas known as "Epiphany", "Twelfth Night", or "Kings Day, and continues
until "Fat Tuesday", the day before Ash Wednesday. The official colors for Mardi Gras are
purple, green and gold chosen in 1872 by the King of Carnival, Rex. Purple represents Justice,
Green represents Faith and Gold represents Power.
New Orleans still needs our support. Carnival and Mardi Gras provide the much needed
economic influx critical to the rebuilding of one of this country's most unique and dynamic cities.