Mardi Gras and its History

Mardi Gras, also known as “Fat Tuesday,” is a celebrated event that takes place on the day before Ash Wednesday. This catholic holiday has its roots in ancient celebrations and has evolved over time to become the colorful and vibrant festival that we know today.

The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced back to ancient Rome, where the festival of Saturnalia was held in December to celebrate the god of agriculture, Saturn. This festival was a time of feasting, gift-giving, and revelry. It served as the model for many similar celebrations throughout history. In medieval Europe, the festival of Mardi Gras was established as a time for people to indulge in food, drink, and merriment before the start of the Lenten season. Lent was a time of fasting, penitence, and reflection, and Mardi Gras was seen as a last opportunity to indulge before the solemn period began.

When French explorers arrived in the New World, they brought the tradition of Mardi Gras with them, and it quickly became a popular event in colonial Louisiana, yet it was outlawed by the Spanish when they took control over New Orleans and wasn’t reinstated until Lousiana became a state in 1812. In 1857, a group of New Orleans residents formed the Mistick Krewe of Comus, which is widely considered to be the first organized Mardi Gras krewe in America. Over the years, other krewes were formed, each with its own unique themes and traditions, and Mardi Gras grew in popularity and spectacle.

Today, Mardi Gras is celebrated in many cities around the world, with each location putting its own spin on the festival. In New Orleans, the celebration is characterized by colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and lively music. Despite its evolution over the centuries, the core elements of Mardi Gras remain the same: a time for people to come together, celebrate life, and enjoy each other’s company before the start of the Lenten season.

Mardi Gras has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years and continents. From its roots in ancient celebrations to today, Mardi Gras is a celebration that continues to captivate and inspire people around the world. Here at Voodoo Bayou, we take everything that Mardi Gras is, and bring it right to South Florida! The colors, music, costumes, and more are all brought to the Bayou’s celebration! Celebrate with us this Mardi Gras, February 21st, 2023, and enjoy everything Mardi Gras is with your friends and family! friends and family! friends and family!