Mardi Gras is the time of year to get together with friends and family for celebration and fun before Lent, a time for fasting and moderation. If you’ve never celebrated before, though, it might be challenging to figure out what you want to do. How do you celebrate during this festive time of year? What are your options? Where can you find Mardi Gras merchandise that will help you throw an authentic celebration?
Head to New Orleans
If you really want to do things right, you’ll head to New Orleans, where you’ll find the largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States. There are floats, parades, music, dancing and more – most of the nonessential businesses shut down so that employees can participate in the celebration as well. Not to mention the streets that are occupied by a train of parades for all day entertainment. Can’t make it to New Orleans this year? Don’t worry. There are plenty of other options. Louisiana is known for hosting Mardi Gras parades, balls, and parties in cities all across the state.
Have a Drink
While Mardi Gras is not all about drinking, it has become a tradition. So sit back and enjoy a Sazerac, the quintessential New Orleans cocktail.
Wear Your Beads
Take advantage of the affordable sales of Mardi Gras merchandise and stock up on colored beads. Or, even better, attend any local Louisiana parade and catch some for free. Wear them throughout the celebration to reflect the festive spirit of this time of year.
Get a Mask
Another must-have during your Mardi Gras merchandise shopping is a mask. You can go as elaborate or as simple as you like, but a mask is a must, particularly if you’re interested in celebrating Mardi Gras New Orleans style. The mask adds some mystery and flair to the celebration and puts anyone wearing one into the Mardi Gras spirit.
Start Dancing
Dancing is a huge part of Mardi Gras celebrations, both in New Orleans and around the world. For instance, Columbia’s Shrovetide (Mardi Gras) celebration focuses on dancing, as does Rio’s and even Germany’s. So, get your body in motion. Any dance will do (wear your beads while you do it). With all the music surrounding the festivities, it’ll be hard not to!
Celebrate the Coming Spring
While Mardi Gras might be tied to Lent, it is also tied to the arrival of spring. So, celebrate that in whatever way you want. For example, the Mardi Gras celebration in Belgium includes throwing oranges to people as part of a welcoming for spring. Other cities around the world focus on fresh flowers or eating specific foods. Sweden celebrates with buns stuffed with almond paste and whipped cream! The New Orleans Mardi Gras even hosts mini-parades of people walking around in colorful outfits handing out paper flowers and trinkets as well.
These are just a few tips to help ensure that you’re able to celebrate Mardi Gras the way you want, whether you’re able to partake in an organized parade, or are just having fun with family and friends.