MardiGrasLuv.com

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is viewed throughout the world as a wild and crazy party, which
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.