Festivals Around The World Questions Long
The Mardi Gras festival in New Orleans is known for its vibrant and lively celebrations, filled with a variety of main events that attract millions of visitors from around the world. Here are some of the key events that take place during the Mardi Gras festival in New Orleans:
1. Parades: The Mardi Gras parades are the highlight of the festival, featuring elaborate floats, marching bands, and costumed participants known as "krewes." Each parade is organized by a different krewe, which is a social organization responsible for planning and funding the parade. The parades traverse through the streets of New Orleans, throwing colorful beads, doubloons, and other trinkets to the cheering crowds.
2. King and Queen's Day: This event marks the official start of the Mardi Gras season. A king and queen are chosen to reign over the festivities, and their identities are kept secret until the day of the event. The King and Queen's Day is celebrated with a grand ball, where the royal couple is presented to the public.
3. Krewe Balls: These are formal events organized by various krewes, where members and their guests gather to celebrate Mardi Gras. The balls are known for their opulent decorations, live music, and performances. The highlight of the evening is the presentation of the krewe's king and queen, who perform a traditional dance known as the "Grand March."
4. Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club Parade: The Zulu parade is one of the most iconic events of Mardi Gras. The Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club, a historically African American organization, leads a procession through the streets of New Orleans. Participants wear colorful costumes, including the famous Zulu coconuts, which are highly sought-after throws.
5. Rex Parade and Meeting of the Courts: The Rex parade is another major event during Mardi Gras. Rex, the King of Carnival, leads a procession of floats, accompanied by his court. The meeting of the courts takes place at the end of the parade, where Rex meets with the queen of a neighboring krewe, symbolizing the unity of different organizations during the festival.
6. Lundi Gras: The day before Mardi Gras, known as Lundi Gras, is celebrated with various events. The most notable is the arrival of the King of Carnival by boat, followed by a fireworks display. Lundi Gras also features live music performances, food vendors, and other festivities.
7. Mardi Gras Day: The culmination of the festival, Mardi Gras Day, is filled with parades, music, and revelry. The most famous parade on this day is the Rex parade, followed by the Zulu parade. The streets are packed with locals and tourists, all dressed in colorful costumes, masks, and beads. The day ends with the ceremonial burning of a straw effigy known as "Mr. Mardi Gras," symbolizing the end of the festival.
These are just a few of the main events that take place during the Mardi Gras festival in New Orleans. The festival is a unique blend of tradition, culture, and celebration, making it one of the most renowned and cherished festivals around the world.