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The History of Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras! Two words, yet it holds various different meanings for those around the world. For some it’s an event, a tradition, a religion, a parade or a piece of history. Let’s break down the history of this fun-filled “carnival” and why millions grab their beads and pick the flashiest outfit to celebrate each and every year.

History of Mardi Gras
Let’s go back in time…. In the United States, the arrival of Mardi Gras can be traced back to the late 17th Century when the Le Moyne brothers were sent to defend France’s claim on Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. As they entered the mouth of the Mississippi River on March 2, 1699 on Lundi Gras (French for Fat Monday), the pair did not know this landmark was already claimed for France and the party proceeded upstream to where New Orleans is today, and made camp. This was on March 3, 1699 on the day of Mardi Gras. Therefore, in honor of the holiday, this spot was named Point du Mardi Gras which is French for “Mardi Gras Point.” In 1703, French settlers established the first Mardi Gras celebration in what was to become the United States. In 1723, the capital of Louisiana was moved to New Orleans, founded in 1718 and the first Mardi Gras parade was held in New Orleans in 1837.

The term “Mardi Gras” has come to mean the whole period of activity related to the Carnival celebratory events, beyond just the single day which is known as “Mardi Gras Day.” The festivities begin on or after the Epiphany, the day in which it was revealed that God was reincarnated as Jesus Christ and extends to the day before Ash Wednesday, most popular for “Fat Tuesday,” which in the French language means “Mardi Gras.” Fat Tuesday is well known as the last night of bad behavior and to eat fatty foods before fasting for the Lent season – thus celebrated as the biggest parade and party of the season.

Mardi Gras Tradition
The tradition in New Orleans expanded to the point where residents of New Orleans beyond those of the Catholic religion or French heritage joined in celebration. This holiday is celebrated with parades, music, beads, booze, and flashy clothes! It is very popularly seen for those walking the streets of New Orleans to wear beads and the flashiest outfits. Colors such as purple, green, and gold are extremely popular, well known as the “Symbolism of Colors.” These Mardi Gras Studs & Cufflinks Set will add to the perfect Mardi Gras look as they match with the popular color scheme and flashy look partygoers are searching for. You’ll see many, many crazy costumes – the crazier, the better in fact! Actually, there’s no such thing as too crazy in New Orleans – to receive those extra beads and throws you want to accentuate your own look and this Mardi Gras Tuxedo Vest will certainly be an answer to that cause.

You’ll want to look your best in this annual celebration because as they say, “Laisses les bons temps rouler” ……Let the good times roll!