Considering a trip to the Big Easy for Mardi Gras? With roots tracing back to medieval Europe, this annual celebration has been observed in the city of New Orleans since the early 1700’s. By 1875 Fat Tuesday became a legal holiday in Louisiana and the good times have been rolling ever since! Tuesday, February 28th is Fat Tuesday this year and NOLA is gearing up for another fantastic event. To dress appropriately, remember that Mardi Gras colors are GREEN (representing faith), GOLD (representing power) and PURPLE (representing justice). Why not get decked out in full Mardi Gras attire, wrap a few strands of colorful beads around your neck, then head to the French Quarter, Bourbon Street or one of the parade routes. Spend time in Jackson Square or grab a coffee and a beignet at Café du Monde. There are enough fun and excitement to go around all over the city on this free, festive annual holiday.
Your Mardi Gras celebration will typically include:
Beads, Doubloons, and Masks – Parade patrons who don a colorful mask will certainly stand out in the crowd. The intriguing masks attract attention and lead to more beads being tossed your way. You may even be lucky and end up with a few special doubloons (souvenir collector coins).
Parades – Line the city streets Uptown or other locations throughout the city to join in the fun. Yell out for beads and doubloons as the themed and costumed “krewes” and their floats go by. Each Krewe is unique. Popular krewe groups include Endymion, Bacchus, Rex, Zulu and the Mardi Gras Indians.
King Cake – This traditional treat is sure to delight. Decorated with green, purple and gold accents and vanilla icing, the cake is sweet French pastry blended with coffee cake. If you find a tiny, plastic doll inside your slice of cake, you win the prize and become “king” for the day!
Take a break from all the excitement of Mardi Gras and relax at the deluxe accommodations of the Wyndham La Belle Maison. This RCI Gold Crown resort is in the heart of the city, providing a comfortable respite. Well-appointed studio, 1- and 2-bedroom units provide all the comforts of home in close proximity to the best of NOLA. This resort is located in a renovated, historic property located in the Warehouse / Arts District and is a lovely blend of modern convenience and charming elegance. Amenities include an outdoor saltwater spa, indoor hot tub, and sauna, exercise facilities, laundry facilities, a concierge, and activities desk. Easy access to the French Quarter, Harrah’s Casino, the Garden District, Super Dome, historic cathedrals, restaurants, shops, museums, and galleries.
–contributed by Chris Golden
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