Archive for the ‘Mardi Gras’ Category

What’s The History & Meaning Behind Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras – aka Carnival and Fat Tuesday – a festive holiday full of indulgence is soon to be upon us once again on February 16th, 2010. Originally taken from a pagan Roman fertility holiday known as Lupercalia, the event that is now Mardi Gras has transformed through the centuries spreading across Europe and appearing in America in the New Orleans area with the arrival of the French around the 1700’s. Since the holiday has deep ancient roots, the traditions of Mardi Gras are extremely rich in symbolism, history and culture. Ever wonder about their origins? What is the meaning behind the Mardi Gras masks anyway?

Meaning Behind the Mardi Gras Masks

The practice of wearing masks during Mardi Gras started in ancient Roman times when the Luperci – Roman priests who officiated the festivities of Lupercalia – would don dramatic masks (and nothing else) during the fertility rituals that were performed during the holiday. The nudity associated with the original holiday of Lupercalia was eventually dropped, but the tradition of wearing masks was carried down through the ages, making it’s way to the mystique masquerade balls of France and finally to the present day Mardi Gras celebration that takes place every year in New Orleans and other southern cities in the United States.

Many agree that the wearing of the masks eventually became more of a license to go wild without fear of social repercussions during the Mardi Gras festivities. Whatever the reason, the venetian masks worn at Mardi Gras are unarguably cool and one of the many traditions that makes the party a special and unique celebration. If you’ll be attending this year get the best deals on some of our very favorite cheap Mardi Gras masks:

Have a blast this year at the 2010 Mardi Gras bash! May this year be the best one yet!