Happy Mardi Gras!
Happy Mardi Gras!
Happy Mardi Gras! Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler!
Did you know?
During the first Mardi Gras street processions held in New Orleans in the 1830s, many of the floats were pulled by horses, included horses and carriages, and featured riders on horseback?
With origins dating back to the 17th and 18th century in medieval Europe, Mardi Gras has always had the makings of an unbelievable party! Nowadays, masked revelers catch “throws” from fantastical floats in street parades, elegant debutantes dine at costume balls, and party-goers enjoy the overall carnival atmosphere.
The theme for 2015 Mardi Gras is appropriately “The Nature of the Beasts,” and photos and videos are already beginning to come in from the parade, including the “High Horse” float and the “Trojan Horse” float in the Orpheus Parade.
Mardi Gras Fast Facts:
- The colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green, and gold, which represent justice, power, and faith.
- The gaslight torch bearers are called “flambeaux.”
- By law, float riders must wear masks at all times.
- King Cake is made of Danish dough that’s carefully braided, baked, and decorated with frosting and Mardi Gras-colored sprinkles.
- The lucky person who finds a tiny baby in their piece of King Cake should host next year’s Mardi Gras party!
Click here to learn more about the history of Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
Other links about horses and Mardi Gras:
The Story of Mystic, The Mardi Gras Parade Horse
Video: Mardi Gras Horse Inspections
Video: Trojan Horse Float in Orpheus Parade
Mardi Gras 2015 Brings Marine Corps’ Only Mounted Color Guard to New Orleans
