Uncovering the Hidden Gems of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is one of the most celebrated events in New Orleans, Louisiana, and for good reason. This annual festival is a time for revelry, costumes, parades, and indulging in delicious food and drinks. While the main events of Mardi Gras, such as the parades on Bourbon Street, are well-known, there are many hidden gems to be discovered during this festive time. In this article, we will explore some of the lesser-known aspects of Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

History of Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Mardi Gras has a long history in New Orleans, dating back to the French colonization of the area in the early 18th century. The first Mardi Gras parade was held in 1837, and the tradition has continued to evolve over the years.

One of the unique aspects of Mardi Gras in New Orleans is the use of “krewes,” which are social clubs that put on parades and balls during the festival. Each krewe has its own theme and signature throw, which is the item that they throw to the crowds during the parades.

Exploring the Neighborhood Parades

While the main Mardi Gras parades on Bourbon Street are certainly a sight to behold, the neighborhood parades are where you’ll find some of the most unique and authentic Mardi Gras experiences. These parades are put on by smaller krewes and take place in various neighborhoods throughout the city.

One of the most popular neighborhood parades is the Krewe of Barkus, which is a parade solely dedicated to dogs. The parade features dogs of all breeds and sizes dressed in festive costumes, and it’s a fun and lighthearted event that’s perfect for families.

Another unique neighborhood parade is the Krewe of Red Beans, which features a parade of musicians and chefs dressed in red bean costumes. The parade is followed by a traditional New Orleans red beans and rice dinner, which is a must-try dish during Mardi Gras.

Visiting the Mardi Gras Indian Tribes

The Mardi Gras Indian tribes are another hidden gem of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. These tribes, which are made up of African American men and women, dress in elaborate beaded and feathered costumes and perform dances and rituals during Mardi Gras.

Visiting the Mardi Gras Indian tribes requires a bit of planning, as they typically perform in specific neighborhoods on specific days. However, it’s well worth the effort to see these incredible displays of culture and tradition.

Exploring the Food and Drink Scene

No trip to New Orleans is complete without indulging in the city’s famous food and drink. During Mardi Gras, there are plenty of opportunities to sample some of the city’s best dishes and drinks.

One of the must-try foods during Mardi Gras is king cake, a sweet pastry that’s typically filled with cinnamon and cream cheese and topped with colorful sugar. King cake is traditionally eaten during the weeks leading up to Mardi Gras, and it’s a fun and festive treat to indulge in during this time.

Another food to try during Mardi Gras is gumbo, a hearty stew that’s made with seafood, sausage, or chicken and served over rice. Gumbo is a staple of New Orleans cuisine, and it’s a perfect dish to warm you up during the colder days of Mardi Gras.

Of course, no trip to New Orleans is complete without trying the city’s famous cocktails, such as the Sazerac, the Hurricane, and the Ramos Gin Fizz. During Mardi Gras, you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants serving up these classic drinks, as well as festive cocktails that are perfect for the occasion.

Attending the Lundi Gras Boat Parade

The Lundi Gras Boat Parade is another hidden gem of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. This parade takes place on the Monday before Mardi Gras and features a procession of boats on the Mississippi River.

During the parade, you’ll see boats of all shapes and sizes, from small fishing boats to large paddle wheelers, all decked out in festive decorations and colors. The parade also features live music and entertainment, making it a fun and unique way to experience Mardi Gras.

Exploring the Art and Music Scene

New Orleans is known for its vibrant art and music scene, and Mardi Gras is no exception. During the festival, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore the city’s art galleries and museums, as well as attend live music performances.

One of the must-visit art galleries in New Orleans is the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, which features a collection of contemporary and traditional art from the American South. The museum also hosts various events and exhibitions during Mardi Gras, making it a great way to experience the city’s art scene.

When it comes to live music, New Orleans has no shortage of options. During Mardi Gras, you’ll find live music performances throughout the city, with everything from jazz and blues to funk and hip-hop. Some of the best places to catch live music during Mardi Gras include the Maple Leaf Bar, Tipitina’s, and the House of Blues.

Participating in the Krewe of Boo Parade

The Krewe of Boo Parade is another hidden gem of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. This parade takes place in the weeks leading up to Halloween and features a procession of floats and costumed participants.

The parade is known for its elaborate and creative floats, which are decorated with spooky themes and Halloween decorations. Participants in the parade also wear creative and colorful costumes, making it a fun and festive event to attend.

Visiting the Mardi Gras World

If you want to learn more about the history and traditions of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, a visit to Mardi Gras World is a must. This attraction is located just outside of the French Quarter and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Mardi Gras floats and costumes.

During a visit to Mardi Gras World, you’ll have the opportunity to see artists and craftspeople at work, creating the elaborate and colorful floats that are a hallmark of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. You’ll also have the chance to try on costumes and take photos with the floats, making it a fun and interactive way to experience Mardi Gras.

Attending the St. Anne’s Parade

The St. Anne’s Parade is one of the oldest and most unique parades during Mardi Gras in New Orleans. This parade takes place on Mardi Gras morning and features a procession of costumed participants walking through the French Quarter.

What sets the St. Anne’s Parade apart is its focus on creativity and individuality. Participants in the parade are encouraged to create their own costumes and floats, making it a colorful and eclectic procession. The parade also features live music and dancing, making it a fun and festive way to celebrate Mardi Gras.

Exploring the Cemetery Tours

New Orleans is famous for its above-ground cemeteries, which are a unique and fascinating aspect of the city’s history. During Mardi Gras, there are several tours that explore these cemeteries and their connections to the festival.

One of the most popular cemetery tours during Mardi Gras is the “Graveyard Gumbo” tour, which is led by a local historian and explores the historic St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. During the tour, you’ll learn about the cemetery’s famous inhabitants, including Marie Laveau, the voodoo queen of New Orleans.

Another popular cemetery tour during Mardi Gras is the “Ghosts of New Orleans” tour, which explores the city’s haunted history and includes a visit to the historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. This cemetery has been featured in several films and TV shows, including “Interview with the Vampire” and “American Horror Story,” and it’s a fascinating place to explore during Mardi Gras.

Experiencing the Mardi Gras Indians Super Sunday

The Mardi Gras Indians Super Sunday is another must-see event during Mardi Gras in New Orleans. This event takes place on the Sunday closest to St. Joseph’s Day, which is celebrated on March 19th.

During the Super Sunday event, the Mardi Gras Indian tribes come together to showcase their elaborate costumes and perform traditional dances and rituals. The event also features live music and food vendors, making it a fun and festive way to experience the cultural traditions of Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

Exploring the French Quarter

No trip to New Orleans is complete without exploring the historic French Quarter, and Mardi Gras is the perfect time to do so. This neighborhood is the heart of the city, and it’s home to some of the most iconic Mardi Gras traditions.

One of the must-visit spots in the French Quarter during Mardi Gras is Jackson Square, which is the site of many of the festival’s main events. This historic square is surrounded by beautiful buildings and is home to the St. Louis Cathedral, which is the oldest cathedral in North America.

Another must-visit spot in the French Quarter during Mardi Gras is Royal Street, which is known for its art galleries, antique shops, and live music. During Mardi Gras, Royal Street is closed to traffic, and it becomes a pedestrian-only zone, making it a perfect place to explore on foot.

Taking a Riverboat Cruise

Finally, taking a riverboat cruise is another hidden gem of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. These cruises offer a unique perspective on the festival, allowing you to see the parades and festivities from the water.

There are several riverboat companies that offer cruises during Mardi Gras, including the Steamboat Natchez and the Creole

Queen Riverboat. During the cruise, you’ll enjoy live music, delicious food and drinks, and stunning views of the city skyline.

Conclusion

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a one-of-a-kind festival that’s full of excitement, tradition, and cultural significance. While the main events on Bourbon Street are certainly worth experiencing, there are many hidden gems to be discovered during this festive time. From the neighborhood parades to the Mardi Gras Indian tribes, the food and drink scene, and the art and music scene, there are plenty of unique and authentic ways to experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Mardi Gras veteran, there’s always something new to discover in this vibrant and historic city. So, book your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to uncover the hidden gems of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras.