Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is a traditional celebration that takes place before the start of the Christian season of Lent. The celebration is characterized by lively parades, colorful costumes, and a festive atmosphere. If you’re looking to bring some of the excitement of Mardi Gras to your own party, throwing a Mardi Gras themed party is a great way to do it. In this guide, we will provide you with tips and ideas on how to throw the ultimate Mardi Gras themed party.
Mardi Gras Themed Party
From decorations and costumes to food and drinks and party supplies, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your party a success. So put on your most colorful costume, grab some beads, and get ready to have a blast as we celebrate Mardi Gras.
Mardi Gras Beads | Mardi Gras beads are a staple of the celebration and are often thrown or worn during the parades. Incorporating Mardi Gras beads in the traditional colors of purple, green and gold as decorations can add to the theme of the party. |
Feather Masks and Boas | Feather masks and boas are a common accessory worn during Mardi Gras celebrations. They can be used as decorations or provided as props for guests to wear. |
Decorations | Decorations such as Mardi Gras flags, banners, and street signs: Decorations such as flags, banners and street signs with the name of famous Mardi Gras locations can be used to create the atmosphere of the celebration. |
Music | A live band or DJ can provide the perfect background music and get the party going. They can play traditional Mardi Gras music such as jazz, brass band music and funk, as well as popular hits. |
King Cake | A king cake is a traditional Mardi Gras food, often served in the weeks leading up to Mardi Gras. It’s a type of cake that is often decorated in the colors of Mardi Gras (purple, green, and gold) and it’s often decorated with a small plastic baby inside. |
Cocktail Glasses | Hurricane glasses are traditionally used to serve a popular cocktail known as the Hurricane, which is a must-have during a Mardi Gras party. |
Mardi Gras Masks | Costumes such as Mardi Gras masks, feather headdresses, and colorful tutus: Costumes are an important aspect of a Mardi Gras party. Encourage guests to dress up in costumes such as Mardi Gras masks, feather headdresses, and colorful tutus, for a fun and festive atmosphere. |
Photo Props | A parade float or prop can be used as a fun photo opportunity for guests, and it can serve as a backdrop for the party. You can also use a parade float or prop as a centerpiece for the party. |
Glitter and Confetti | Glitter and confetti can be used to create a festive atmosphere and to add a sparkle to the party. You can scatter them on tables, or even use them as decorations on the walls. |
Mardi Gras Centerpiece | A traditional Mardi Gras centerpiece can be used to add to the theme of the party. A vase filled with feathers or beads in the traditional colors of Mardi Gras can be used as a centerpiece for tables or as a decoration. |
Throws Table with Beads | A “throws” table can be set up to provide guests with beads, trinkets, and other items to throw during the party. This is a traditional aspect of Mardi Gras celebration, and it’s a great way to get guests involved in the party. |
Umbrella or Parasol | A “second line” umbrella or parasol can be used as a prop for guests to use during the party. This is a traditional aspect of Mardi Gras parade and it’s a great way to get guests involved in the party, and it can also be used as a decoration. |
Mardi Gras Overview
Mardi Gras, also known as “Fat Tuesday,” is a traditional Christian holiday that is celebrated in many countries, particularly in the United States, most notably in New Orleans, Louisiana. The holiday falls on the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Lenten season.
Mardi Gras is known for its colorful parades, costumes, and music. Many people dress up in costumes and masks, and attend parades and parties that feature floats, bands, and dancers. The parades are often organized by “Krewes,” which are groups of individuals who plan and fundraise for their own parade float.
The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced back to ancient Roman pagan celebrations, such as Saturnalia and Lupercalia, which were held before the beginning of the Lenten season. The holiday was later adopted by Christians, who used it as a way to celebrate and indulge before the start of the solemn season of Lent.
Mardi Gras is celebrated in different ways around the world, but the most famous celebration takes place in New Orleans, Louisiana, where it has been celebrated since the 18th century. This celebration is known for its elaborate parades, costumes, and music, as well as its food, such as King Cake and Jambalaya.
It’s important to note that despite the festive atmosphere, Mardi Gras can also be a controversial event due to its association with excessive drinking, and the use of racist and sexist costumes.
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