New Orleans’ famous Mardi Gras parade: What is it all about?
In most parts of the world in the Northern Hemisphere, the month of March brings with it the warmer days of spring as a precursor to the upcoming months of summer. Historically, it is a time where people head out on the streets more and have a gala time to mark the end of winter. As a consequence of this, several festivals are celebrated across cultures- from Holi in India to St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland. However, one such festival which stands out and is known world over for its vibrant, colourful and lively celebration is the Mardi Gras parade of the American city of New Orleans, Louisiana. There is no specific date as to when it falls, but this year, it is being celebrated on March 1. Read on to learn more about its history and origin.
What is Mardi Gras?
The term ‘Mardi Gras’ directly translates to ‘Fat Tuesday’ in French. Initially, it was celebrated as a part of the Christian feasts of Epiphany. It is a reflection of the practice of feasting on delicious, often fatty foods before Lent: the 40-day fasting period before Easter. However, over the years, it has changed from being a religious phenomenon to a cultural one. Although it is celebrated in many countries and has different titles such as Shrove Tuesday, Pancake Day and Paczki Day, the one celebrated in the southern American city of New Orleans stands out.
What makes the Mardi Gras traditions in New Orleans unique?
With elaborate crowds of people all decked up for its parade in fancy costumes, colour feathers, eye-catching headdresses and glitter all over, the Mardi Gras traditions in the southern American city are truly unique. The city welcomes close to 1.5 million visitors keen to experience its joyous grandeur each year. Over the course of the celebration, there are numerous parties and parades held. However, one parade which stands out the most is the Krewe du Vieux. It is one of the oldest parades which is a part of the New Orleans Carnival Calendar. This calendar was created in 1987, and lists more than 40 themed-parades and processions showcasing the city’s most loved traditional jazz bands. The epicentre of the celebrations is Bourbon Street which is located in the French quarter which reflects the French heritage of the city with its gorgeous balcony-lined streets.
Why is Mardi Gras so popular in New Orleans?
The feasting tradition of Mardi Gras can be traced back to 17th and 18th century Europe. However, its connection to New Orleans was not established until 1699. Back then, explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville came to the American state of Louisiana and declared a random plot of land here as ‘Point du Mardi Gras’ after realising that it was the eve of the European holiday. The city of New Orleans was established in 1718 close to this plot. Within the next couple of decades, it started hosting its annual parades which became an annual occurrence.