Carnival season in New Orleans, also known as Mardi Gras season, is a festive time that precedes the Christian season of Lent. The season starts today, January 6th, also known as Twelfth Night or Epiphany, and culminates on Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday.
Mardi Gras, which means "Fat Tuesday" in French, is a holiday that has been celebrated in New Orleans for more than 300 years. It is a time for parades, costumes, and parties, and it has become one of the most well-known celebrations in the United States.
The origins of Mardi Gras in New Orleans can be traced back to the city's French colonial period. In the early 18th century, the French-Canadian explorer Jean Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville founded New Orleans and introduced the celebration of Mardi Gras to the city.
Mardi Gras is known for its elaborate parades, which are organized by krewes, or social clubs. These krewes design and build elaborate floats and throw beads, doubloons, and other trinkets to the crowds lining the parade routes.
There are also many other events that take place during Mardi Gras season, such as balls, concerts, and street fairs. The celebrations culminate on Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, when the city holds its final parades and parties.
Don't hesitate reach out if you plan to visit New Orleans during the Carnival Season. We are happy to help visitors with personalized recommendation to have the best possible experience in the city. In the past we have planned many events to help others enjoy their own Mardi Gras celebration!
If you're planning a Mardi Gras celebration in the Big Easy, here are a few tips to help you get started:
Choose a venue - Select a venue that can accommodate your event and has a festive atmosphere. Consider a venue with a spacious outdoor area for a parade or second line, or opt for a venue with a Mardi Gras-themed decor.
Invite your guests - Send out invitations and give your guests plenty of notice so they can make arrangements to attend. Consider offering a Mardi Gras-themed dress code, such as masks and beads, to get everyone in the spirit.
Plan your menu - No Mardi Gras celebration is complete without delicious food and drink. Consider serving traditional New Orleans dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets, and offer a variety of refreshing cocktails and beverages.
Consider entertainment - Mardi Gras is all about having a good time, so be sure to plan some fun entertainment for your guests. This might include hiring a DJ or live band, setting up a photo booth, or organizing a costume contest.
Don't forget the decor - Add some Mardi Gras flair to your event with colorful decorations like streamers, balloons, and feather boas. Consider setting up a Mardi Gras-themed photo booth area with masks, beads, and other props for guests to take pictures.
Planning a Mardi Gras - themed event in the Big Easy is a great way to celebrate the carnival season and bring some joy and cheer to your friends and loved ones. With a little planning and creativity, you can throw a memorable and festive celebration that everyone will enjoy.