Streams & Broadcasts
Can’t make it to Mardi Gras in New Orleans or prefer to view the action remotely? Enjoy live and on-demand coverage of parades and more.
Mardi Gras 101
An introduction to the core curriculum for aspiring revelers.
King Cake: A Rich Tradition
Long before the Lord of Misrule reigned over the first pageant of the Twelfth Night Revelers in New Orleans, his ancient ancestor, the King of Saturnalia, set the precedent for a tradition that holds the key to understanding how a toothsome treat — king cake — became...
Mardi Gras Dictionary and Terminology
Who is The Lord of Misrule? What does the word “krewe” have to do with the poetry of John Milton? Why are go-cups popular throws? And what does a spyboy mean when he hollers “Humbah!” If these questions seem puzzling, it’s time to bone-up on some Mardispeak.
When is Mardi Gras
Thanks to Church fathers, Mardi Gras, which falls on February 13 in 2018, is a movable feast depending on the date of Easter.
Mardi Gras History
In exploring Mardi Gras history, there’s no tidy way to connect the dots between ancient festive customs and the modern pre-Lenten revels that occur in a myriad of guises around the world. Certainly, religious rituals associated with the mythic god Dionysus helped to...
Parade Ladders
Step ladders with seats attached are a favorite way to provide kids with a prime parade perch and help them snag lots of throws.
Flashing for Beads
As flashing for beads has evolved into a Mardi Gras pastime, “Show your tits!” has become as much a part of the lexicon as “Throw me something, mister!” But those inclined to revel in the risqué should be mindful of the fact that what was once a spontaneous and casual...
Ride-sharing, Taxis and Public Transportation
Ride-sharing and public transportation apps have greatly improved options for getting by in New Orleans without a car.
Tips and Tricks Intro
Advice and insights on navigating the ins and outs of a sprawling extravaganza that can be challenging to get one’s arms around.
Words to the Wise
Be mindful of the fact that the laissez-faire atmosphere of Mardi Gras can cause visitors to become more prone to take risks and let their guard down. Especially for those seeking to revel in the risqué side of the festivities, some precautions are in order.Watching...
Mardi Gras Music History
The nexus between Carnival and music reflects the festive, let-the-good-times-roll culture of the Crescent City, where parading and dancing have long been obsessions. The seasonal spirit and its accompanying soundtrack conspire to prompt revelers to shed inhibitions...
What it’s all About
Everybody knows that Mardi Gras is a time to frolic and have fun, to cut loose — to throw down, as they say in the Big Easy. But what about the trappings and traditions — the masks, beads, king cake and mock royalty; the ubiquitous purple, green and gold? Aren’t these...