FESTIVALS & EVENTS Experience the Magic of mardi gras It’s been said of Mardi Gras that everywhere else, it’s just a Tuesday. The same might be said for Louisiana’s incredible lineup of signature festivals and local fairs. Everywhere else, they’re just events. Krewe of Bacchus Parade, New Orleans lthough Mardi Gras is synonymous with Fat Tuesday, Carnival agoes on for much longer than that, from Jan. 6 (King’s Day) to the day before Ash Wednesday. It’s also known for its signature colors (purple, green and gold, which stand for justice, faith and power) and its theme song of Rex, the King of Mardi Gras, which is “If Ever I Cease to Love.” Witness the spectacle yourself to hear parade-goers yell, “Throw me something, Mister,” as krewe members toss “ throws ” that include hand-decorated coconuts, shoes and even toilet plungers. And be sure to eat a king cake , which absolutely EVERYONE does! A See the 610 Stompers, Muff-a-lettas, Amelia Airhawts and other creative dance troupes do their thing. Catch a glimpse at “ flambeaux ,” the torch carriers who light up night parades, and the colorful Mardi Gras Indians . Then venture outside New Orleans for Courir de Mardi Gras , where many communities across South and Central Louisiana get all dressed up in colorful outfits and go house to house, some on horseback, begging for ingredients to make a gumbo. 32 LouisianaTravel.com
Louisiana Travel Guide Louisiana Sunshine Magazine 2023: Page 32
