40 Fascinating Mardi Gras Trivia Facts

Mardi Gras, also known as “Fat Tuesday,” is more than just a day of celebration—it’s a season filled with rich history, traditions, and cultural significance. From the famous parades in New Orleans to unique customs practiced around the world, Mardi Gras has become an iconic event. Whether you’re a Mardi Gras enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these 40 Mardi Gras trivia facts will enhance your knowledge and appreciation of this lively celebration.

1. What does “Mardi Gras” mean?

It translates to “Fat Tuesday” in French, referring to the tradition of indulging before the fasting season of Lent.

2. Where did Mardi Gras originate?

Though most associate it with New Orleans, Mardi Gras actually originated in Medieval Europe, traveling from Rome and Venice to France before reaching America.

3. When was the first U.S. Mardi Gras celebration?

The first Mardi Gras in the U.S. took place in Mobile, Alabama, in 1703, predating New Orleans celebrations.

4. Who introduced Mardi Gras to New Orleans?

The French settlers brought Mardi Gras to New Orleans in 1699.

5. What are the official Mardi Gras colors, and what do they represent?

Purple for justice, green for faith, and gold for power, established by the Krewe of Rex in 1892.

6. What’s the traditional Mardi Gras dessert?

The famous King Cake, decorated with purple, green, and gold icing, hides a plastic baby inside. Whoever finds the baby is tasked with hosting the next party.

7. When does Mardi Gras season officially start?

Mardi Gras kicks off on January 6th, known as Epiphany or Twelfth Night, and lasts until Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday.

8. What is the Krewe of Zulu’s signature throw?

The Krewe of Zulu is known for throwing decorated coconuts, considered one of the most prized Mardi Gras souvenirs.

9. What are “throws” in Mardi Gras?

During parades, Krewe members on floats toss beads, doubloons, toys, and other trinkets to the crowds.

10. What is the oldest Mardi Gras Krewe?

The Mistick Krewe of Comus, founded in 1856, is the oldest continuous organization participating in Mardi Gras.

Historical Mardi Gras Trivia

11. Which Krewe first introduced parades with themed floats?

The Krewe of Rex in 1872 started the tradition of themed floats during parades.

12. Why is Mardi Gras celebrated before Lent?

Mardi Gras represents a final day of feasting and indulgence before the fasting and penance of Lent begins.

13. When did Mardi Gras become a legal holiday in Louisiana?

In 1875, Mardi Gras was declared a legal holiday in Louisiana by Governor Warmoth.

14. Which Krewe was the first to racially integrate?

The Krewe of Orpheus, founded by musician Harry Connick Jr. in 1993, was the first to openly integrate its membership.

15. Why was Mardi Gras canceled from 1942 to 1945?

Mardi Gras parades were canceled during World War II due to resource shortages.

Fun Mardi Gras Facts

16. What’s the most popular Mardi Gras saying?

“Laissez les bon temps rouler!”, which means “Let the good times roll!” in French.

17. How much does New Orleans collect in beads after Mardi Gras?

The city collects around 1,200 tons of beads and other debris each year after Mardi Gras.

18. How long is the longest Mardi Gras parade route?

The Krewe of Endymion parade route in New Orleans is the longest, stretching about 5 miles.

19. What are some popular Mardi Gras foods?

In addition to King Cake, you’ll find beignets, gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, and crawfish served during Mardi Gras.

20. What’s the most unique Mardi Gras Krewe?

The Krewe of Barkus features dogs dressed up in Mardi Gras costumes, complete with their own parade.

Mardi Gras Around the World

21. Where else in the world is Mardi Gras celebrated?

Beyond New Orleans, Mardi Gras is also widely celebrated in Brazil (Carnival), Venice, Italy, and parts of France.

22. What’s the name of the biggest Mardi Gras celebration in Brazil?

The Rio Carnival, known for its samba parades and extravagant costumes, is Brazil’s version of Mardi Gras.

23. Which European city is known for its masquerade balls during Mardi Gras?

Venice, Italy, is famous for its elaborate masks and masquerade balls during Carnival season.

24. What’s the name of the Mardi Gras parade in France?

Nice Carnival in southern France is a famous celebration, known for its flower battles and colorful parades.

25. What’s the largest Mardi Gras event in the Caribbean?

Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival is a massive street party known for its vibrant costumes and music.

Mardi Gras Traditions and Customs

26. What’s the most coveted Mardi Gras throw?

Apart from beads, hand-painted coconuts and decorated shoes are highly sought-after throws.

27. What’s a doubloon?

A doubloon is a metallic coin, often featuring the krewe’s insignia, and is one of the traditional throws.

28. What’s the official Mardi Gras anthem?

“If Ever I Cease to Love” is the anthem, sung during Rex parades.

29. What is the name of the small plastic baby hidden in King Cake?

The baby represents Jesus, and finding it is a symbol of good fortune.

30. What’s the origin of Mardi Gras beads?

Beads were first thrown during the early 1900s, and now they’re an iconic symbol of Mardi Gras parades.

Krewe Facts

31. What’s the largest Krewe in New Orleans?

The Krewe of Endymion is the largest, with over 3,000 members.

32. What’s the oldest African American Krewe?

The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, established in 1909, is the oldest African American Krewe.

33. Which Krewe parades on foot rather than using floats?

The Krewe of St. Anne is known for its walking parades through the French Quarter.

34. What’s the meaning of the word “Krewe”?

A Krewe is a social organization that plans and hosts a Mardi Gras parade or ball.

35. What’s the most famous Krewe ball?

The Rex Ball, where the King and Queen of Mardi Gras are presented.

Mardi Gras Fun Facts

36. How many Krewes participate in Mardi Gras in New Orleans?

Over 50 Krewes participate in New Orleans alone.

37. What’s the best-known drink during Mardi Gras?

The Hurricane, a rum-based cocktail, is a staple drink during Mardi Gras.

38. How much money does Mardi Gras generate for New Orleans?

Mardi Gras generates approximately $1 billion annually for the city.

39. What does the King Cake baby symbolize?

It symbolizes prosperity and good luck for the year ahead.

40. What’s the typical shape of a King Cake?

The King Cake is circular, representing the crown of a king.