


Mardi Gras, also known as "Fat Tuesday," is a carnival celebration that takes place in many cities around the world, but is particularly famous in New Orleans, Louisiana. Next year (2024) it will be held on Tuesday 13th February. My customers often use visit New Orleans for the carnival and then continue on to see wonders of Nashville and Tennessee.
Traditionally, Mardi Gras encourages people to indulge in sweets, yummy food and celebrate before Lent begins. Now, Mardi Gras brings people together every year to enjoy the music, parades and food that is associated with holiday. Over the years, it has become bigger and bigger in its celebrations.
Mardi Gras is famous for its colorful and elaborate parades featuring floats, marching bands, and costumed performers. Each parade has a different theme, and many include the throwing of beads, doubloons, and other trinkets to the crowds. It is a time to dress up and get creative with your costume. Many people wear masks, wigs, and elaborate outfits in bright colors and bold patterns.
Food and Drink: Mardi Gras is a time to indulge in rich, flavorful food and drinks. Some traditional foods include gumbo, jambalaya, and king cake. Drinks such as hurricanes, daiquiris, and other fruity cocktails are also popular. Mardi Gras would not be complete without its lively music, with many bands and performers playing jazz, blues, and other upbeat styles of music. There are Street Parties aplenty and this is definitely the time to let loose and have some fun.
While you are visiting, you could;
Stop in for a café au lait and beignets at Café du Monde
Tour Mardi Gras World
Witness the "Bourbon Street Closing"
Pick out a Mardi Gras mask at the French Market
Try authentic cajun and creole food
Soak up the atmosphere in Jackson Square
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through City Park
Explore Louis Armstrong Park and Congo Square
Take a guided tour of the French Quarter
Explore the spooky side of New Orleans
Get up close and personal with alligators on a swamp tour
Mardi Gras really is a festive and colorful celebration that offers something for everyone. Will you put this on your bucket list?