Trail Blog

February 02, 2011

Mardi Gras 101

Learn the terms and traditions of Louisiana’s biggest party.

Carnival:The season leading up to Lent. Begins 12 days after Christmas on the Epiphany, also known as Twelfth Night or Three Kings’ Day, and lasts until Mardi Gras, a single day.

Courir de Gras:Drawn from centuries-old traditions, Courir de Gras features participants traveling from house to house, traditionally on horseback, begging for all the ingredients for a gumbo to be shared with the community. Costumes conceal their identities and also mock royalty.

Court: Each krewe selects a royal court, which includes a king, queen, maids and dukes.

Den: Where krewes store their parade floats.

King Cake:Traditionally baked to celebrate the visit by the Three Kings to see Jesus on Epiphany. Inside each braided Danish pastry is a tiny plastic baby. The person who receives the slice with the baby buys next year’s cake.

Krewe: Clubs that organize the parades and host other parties throughout the Carnival season. The first krewe to host a parade in New Orleans was the Krewe of Comus in 1857.

Mardi Gras:Also known as Fat Tuesday. Refers to the last day of indulgence before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. All of Louisiana celebrates—in fact, it’s a state holiday—with parades, parties, costumes and big pots of gumbo and other one-pot dishes.

Mardi Gras Indians:African-American New Orleanians who “mask,” or dress up, in elaborate beaded and feathered costumes and march throughout the city on Mardi Gras.

Purple, Green and Gold: The traditional colors of Mardi Gras, chosen by the Krewe of Rex, symbolize justice, faith and power.

Throws: The beads, cups, and other trinkets thrown from floats during the many parades. You’ll frequently hear from the parade-watchers: “Throw me something, mister!” Avoid bending over to pick up a throw, or your fingers might just get stepped on. Bring a bag to help carry your loot.