In 1875, the Louisiana State Legislature made Mardi Gras an official holiday in the state of Louisiana, and it has remained such ever since. This event is held every year on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. Just so you know, Mardi Gras can be celebrated in either February or March, depending on when it falls on the calendar year.

What do people do during Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras is, without a doubt, the most important event in New Orleans. Furthermore, some people use this occasion as a time to gather with family and enjoy themselves. The Carnival season officially begins on Twelfth Night or the Feast of the Epiphany, with three parades marking the occasion. Mardi Gras krewes organise the marches, and each has its own history and rituals associated with them. Seats are not required during the parades that take place during Mardi Gras. The vast majority of those attending the parades will be standing or even jumping.

There are also a number of merchandise stalls set up across the area. And, contrary to popular belief, purchasing one is not required. Only those who are riding on parade floats are needed to comply. Therefore, if your sole purpose during Mardi Gras is to watch the parades and enjoy the delicious food, you won't have to purchase any merchandise.

Yes, you heard it. There is delicious food sold during Mardi Gras. Of course, a festival would be incomplete if it did not include delightful cuisine. The following classic foods can be found during Mardi Gras: King Cake, Dirty Rice, Crawfish Étouffée, Jambalaya, Po'Boy, and Crawfish Boil, to name a few. Since Pancake Day falls on the same day as Mardi Gras, you will also be able to indulge in some delectable pancakes during this occasion.

What to wear during Mardi Gras?

Costumes are essentially the lifeblood of New Orleans' Carnival season. There is no official Mardi Gras theme, as there is no governing body for Mardi Gras. However, at the absolute least, you may wish to dress in the carnival's official colours. Gold, green, and purple are just a few of these hues. These are claimed to have been chosen in 1892 as part of the Rex Parade theme "Symbolism of Colours." Besides the colours, here are essential things to add to your outfit:

#1 Feathers

The earliest Mardi Gras costume ornamentation was turkey and poultry feathers. A group of African Americans from New Orleans known as Mardi Gras Indians celebrate carnival by dressing up in extravagant, hand-made costumes and masks. Furthermore, folk art from the Caribbean and Africa has influenced their style.

#2 Something easily packable

Besides the locals, a lot of people who join the Mardi Gras celebration are travellers. Before arriving at the site, concentrate on putting together a travel capsule outfit that can be quickly packed into a carry-on suitcase with the help of packing cubes. Your back and shoulders will thank you because you will not be hauling about an overly large backpack anymore. You'll also save money on checked luggage costs due to this.

#3 Something eye-catching

When it comes to choosing a Mardi Gras costume, the options are nearly limitless. Wearing a bright coloured accessory is a terrific way to add some bling to your appearance without having to put on a very complicated costume. This entails purchasing additional hats, shoes, and other accessories.

#4 Mask

Masks were revered as objects of ritual and magic in many ancient societies and religions. They were believed to transport the user to an overtly spiritual realm when they were worn. To feel more connected to the divine, African tribes donned masks during religious rites.

For a long time, the masks worn during Mardi Gras permitted their wearers to escape from society and social restrictions. Those who wore masks were free to be anyone they wanted to be and mingle with whatever social class they chose to mingle with while at the carnival. However, this has all changed now.

By legislation, float riders are supposed to wear masks when on the water. Furthermore, everyone is welcome to dress up in masks on Fat Tuesday, which adds to the excitement and magic of the festivities taking place all around the city.

Furthermore, clowns are hugely popular during Mardi Gras, which is why some individuals choose to dress in complete clown costumes for the parade and other festivities. These masks are made to appear as if the wearer's face has been painted with white and red paint, which is exactly what they are.

#5 Comfortable shoes

Since Mardi Gras is a very long party, you should dress in something that is both comfortable and stylish. Since you'll be walking a lot, you should choose shoes that are comfortable on your feet. If you want to make a statement, choose metallic or embellished sneakers to do it. In this manner, you can remain comfortable while yet looking your absolute best. On the other hand, if you plan on attending formal gatherings, it's a good idea to bring along a pair of heels.

Find the best mardi gras parade outfits

Charismatico makes every effort to obtain distinctive, high-quality Mardi Gras parade outfitsthat stand out for their vibrant colours and extravagant styles. We thoroughly inspect all Mardi Gras costumes before delivery, guaranteeing that you receive not only a stunning garment but also one that is capable of withstanding the hectic activity associated with Mardi Gras.