10 Things You Must Do During Mardi Gras
10 Things You Must Do During Mardi Gras
Mardis Gras is one of the biggest celebrations in the US. It's also known as Fat Tuesday and begins on or after the Christian feasts of the Epiphany and culminating on the day before Ash Wednesday. But never mind the history lesson, what are the best things to do during Mardi Gras?
Mardis Gras is one of the biggest celebrations in the US. It's also known as Fat Tuesday and begins on or after the Christian feasts of the Epiphany and culminating on the day before Ash Wednesday. But never mind the history lesson, what are the best things to do during Mardi Gras?
Not sure what to do during Mardi Gras?
We've got you covered!
1. Eat A King Cake - The king cake is a delicious Mardi Gras tradition and is baked with a small plastic baby doll is hidden inside of the cake. The one who finds the baby is given the responsibility of hosting the following year's party.
2. Dress up - Dressing in costume is one of the best ways to truly get into the full spirit of Mardi Gras. So, grab something weird, colorful, or even fancy and have a good time.
3. Find a Balcony - The balconies in New Orleans during Mardi Gras are almost an entirely separate event. While a few offer the chance to view the parade route from above, they are all truly an experience, especially on Bourbon Street.
4. Learn about Mardi Gras history at Mardi Gras museum - While celebrating, you should check out the Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum. It features Mardi Gras costumes, vintage photographs, Carnival masks, and more.
5. Catch Prizes at a parade - New Orleans hosts multiple parades every few days. "Throws" or trinkets, beads, and other items are tossed from floats to the eager parade-goers.
6. Wear a Mask - Wearing masks at Mardi Gras began as a way to escape the constraints of society and class. For a few days out of the year, everyone was able to speak and mingle together no matter what social class they came from.
7. Shop the French Market - The French Market has been in business since the late 18th century and while it has evolved over time along with the city, it still has the feel of a European open-air market.
8. Gorge on New Orleans food - New Orleans' Cajun and Creole style cooking is famous for its spicy flavors. Gumbo, a popular dish, consists of chicken, rice, sausage and okra.
9. Have a drink at the oldest bar in the US - Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar was built between 1722 and 1732 is said to be the oldest structure to house a bar in the U.S.
10. Visit a graveyard - The graveyards in New Orleans are some of the oldest in the country and are very similar to the graveyards found in Paris.
Feeling jazzed yet! We hope these tips will help you navigate your Mardi Gras adventure!
Feeling jazzed yet! We hope these tips will help you navigate your Mardi Gras adventure!