Mardi Gras has been celebrated across the Gulf Coast for centuries. French for “Fat Tuesday,” Mardi Gras celebration started in 1699 in the downriver from New Orleans. It is celebrated on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, which is a day consumed of fasting and the start of Lent for Christians. Normally, majority of observers used the last day before lent devouring richer and fattier foods. Mardi Gras continues to evolve over the years that keeps people coming back for more. To grasp a clear understanding of the evolution of Mardi Gras across the GulfCoast, let’s glance back at the archives.
New Orleans ew Orleans is infamous for being the most prominent city of the annual celebration. Canal street is the primary focus of the parade routes. In 1837, the Crescent City’s documented the
first Mardi Gras parade. The Krewe of Comus, host the first Mardi Gras parade in 1857.
The Krewe was formed by six men who moved from Mobile to New Orleans. One of the oldest Krewe members “Rex” was established in 1872. Rex coordinated the city’s first daytime Mardi Gras parade and developed the colors- purple, gold, and green. The festivities include vibrant hues of masked revelers celebrating on foot and at masquerade balls. Mobile, Alabama is home to dozens of mystic societies. In 1867, the Order of Myths was formed and the Order of Myths was formed and was the first continuous Mardi Gras parading group. The Mobile’s Comic Cowboys was formed in 1884 and is known for their humorous floats, composed of political satire and commentary.
Twelve years ago, Pensacola Mardi Gras, Inc. took over the Grand Mardi Gras parade. Thanks to Amy Newman and Danny Zimmern, and a plethora of volunteers they created Mardi Gras season here in Pensacola, Florida. Each year brings additional Krewes to assist with Pensacola is recognized for its family oriented environment. The Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras parade is annually the largest and most exorbitant parade in Pensacola.
