Mardi Gras is a centuries-old celebration filled with unique customs and traditions that bring joy to people around the world every year. From throwing beads to costumes, King Cakes, masking, and parading, there are many ways to enjoy this festive holiday. So gather up your friends and family and get ready for some fun! And don’t forget your costume!
1. Throwing Beads – Mardi Gras is known for its bright colors and bejeweled beads! People traditionally throw them from floats during parades to revelers in the crowd. This tradition dates back to the early 1900s when glass beads were used as a substitute for coins or other material items that would be too expensive for large-scale celebrations.
2. King Cake – The traditional King Cake is an oval-shaped cake topped with colorful frosting and sprinkles of purple, green, and gold. Inside of each cake is a small plastic baby, which traditionally represents the Christ child and symbolizes luck to the person who finds it in their slice of cake.
3. Masking – Masking during Mardi Gras dates back to medieval times when people would hide their identity from royalty and others of higher social status. These days, it’s more for fun than for hiding one’s identity, but the tradition still stands!
4. Costumes – Costumes are one of the most important aspects of Mardi Gras celebrations. No mardi gras celebration is complete without them! Revelers will often dress up in colorful wigs, masks, capes, and other outrageous outfits to get into the festive spirit.
5. Parades – Last but certainly not least, parades! Parades are a large part of Mardi Gras celebrations and often feature floats with masked riders throwing plastic or foil beads to parade attendees. Many float riders also toss strands of brightly colored feathers and other trinkets to spectators along the route. Parades vary greatly from one region to another, so it’s important to research local parades before attending one.
No matter what tradition you choose to celebrate this Mardi Gras, it’s important to stay safe and remember the true meaning of the holiday – having fun with friends and family. Enjoy your celebration!
