Easy Does It
Celebrating Fat Tuesday in New Orleans
While the after effects of 2005’s Hurricane Katrina continues to be felt throughout Louisiana and Mississippi, the Category 5 storm that flattened neighborhoods and devastated long-time residents could not destroy New Orleans’ annual Mardi Gras celebration. The 2008 Mardi Gras season officially kicked off on Jan. 6 with the revelry coming to a resounding conclusion on Tuesday, Feb. 5, the day before Ash Wednesday.
Fat Tuesday was first celebrated in the United States on March 3, 1699 and is most closely identified with the New Orleans. The celebration, which draws party-goers from around the world, has developed many unique groups, traditions and activities.
Part of a Krewe
A Krewe is the name given to one of the many historical organizations that create, build and organize the various parades and celebrations in the weeks before Fat Tuesday. Considered the leaders of New Orleans society, the Krewes also host gala balls and other events. The original crew, the Mystic Krewe of Comus was formed in 1857.
Let Them Eat Cake
Another tradition only to be observed from Twelfth Night through Fat Tuesday is the eating of King Cake. A round-shaped cake that is made of cinnamon-flavored sweet bread and topped with purple, green and gold sugar also has a plastic baby inside. It is said that the person who gets the piece with the plastic baby is then responsible for supplying the next King Cake.
Prime Real Estate
The famed French Quarter is located on a crescent in the Mississippi River and is also one of the highest points of the city. The city’s cultural hub, the French Quarter features dozens of buildings with French, Spanish, Creole and American influenced architecture. The most recognizable features are the cast-iron balconies that visitors can toss beads and stuffed teddy bears from down to the passing throngs.
Hurricane Warning
The Hurricane is the signature drink of Mardi Gras. The New Orleans-version of this high-octane cocktail contains three ounces of rum, two different fruit juices and crushed ice. Alcohol consumption is allowed on Bourbon Street, but not in a glass. If you want to take the party outside, ask the bartender for a “to-go” cup. He will be more than happy to oblige.
With so much fun to be had, it is easy to see why so many people flock to the Big Easy this time of year.
Dressed For the Ball
So you hit Bourbon Street and immediately you feel underdressed for the festivities. Here are three shops to visit that can outfit you for the revelry:
1. Le Garage Antiques and Clothing
1234 Decatur St.
504-522-6639
2. Masks & Make Believe
1 Poydras St., Level C
504-522-6473
3. New Orleans Party and Costume
705 Camp St.
504-525-4744
New Orleans Quick Facts
Founded: 1718
Nicknames: The Big Easy or The Crescent City
Mayor: C. Ray Nagin
Area Code: 504
Legal Drinking Age: 21
Called it home: Louis Armstrong (musician), Emeril Lagasse (chef), Lee Harvey Oswald (JFK assassin), Eli Manning (NFL quarterback), Anne Rice (author)
For more information go to mardigrasday.com
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