For the longest time I have always wanted to attend Mardi Gras in New Orleans. In fact, it’s been on my Adventure List for several years. And while Mardi Gras as it’s translated is Fat Tuesday, the revelry takes place over the course of several weeks in New Orleans.
Mardi Gras is a celebration of indulgence before the fast of Ash Wednesday. It’s a time to party it up. Virtually everyday throughout the City of New Orleans krewes (social organizations of people), host parades and parties where beads, coins, cups and other treasures are thrown to the masses. Fun for the young and young at heart, find a spot along the parade route and get ready to shout and cheer for those beads.
Every year each krewe has a theme to their floats. I happened to see one that was decorated to fairy tales like Little Red Riding Hood and Snow White. Colorful costumes, decorative floats, marching bands and more pomp and circumstance make for a delightful hour or two.
Sadly, I didn’t have my camera with me for much of the festivities. A night out on the town following the parade precluded me from bringing the video camera and associated equipment. So you’ll need to enjoy this quick highlight reel. I attending only one day of parades. After they go by quick, you’ll see some clips from the “Barkus” Parade on Bourbon Street. That’s the canine equivalent of the Bacchus Krewe.
So what’s the secret to collecting beads?
- Scream loud
- Make eye contact with the bead throwers
Do you have a favorite Mardi Gras tradition? What do you do with all your beads after collecting them? Share your thoughts by commenting below!
If you’d like to plan your own Mardi Gras trip, be sure to visit the official planning site here. There are more photos of Mardi Gras on my Facebook Fan Page. You can access them here.
Visit the adventures with ben online store for travel ebooks
Loading ...
Facebook
Twitter
Youtube
Pinterest
Leisha, thanks for reading and for commenting! Glad you enjoyed the post. Feel free to share your disagreements, but remember I “may” have had a drink or two before stepping out to enjoy the parade – thus clouding my memory
I’ll see you out there!
Completely understand what your stance in this matter. Although I would disagree on some of the finer details, I think you did an awesome job explaining it. Sure beats having to research it on my own. Thanks