The Mardi Gras Girl Posing

My cousin took this shot of me in 2011, when we last went to NOLA for Mardi Gras. I told her I thought I looked like a super hero. She said she thought I looked more like a villain, but if I'm feeling super hero then go with it. :0)

This is probably the craziest picture of me yet. Thought I sent it before, but here it is now. Figured you'd enjoy it.

Want to share any Mardi Gras pics? Keep it clean folks! Share here as a comment.

Sondra Carpenter

The Mardi Gras Girl

Have Mardi Gras Fun At Home

Just because the pandemic has shut down a lot of events, it doesn't mean you can't enjoy the Mardi Gras season from home wherever you live. All you need to get started are a few things like:                                              

* Mardi Gras themed masks (preferably in the Mardi Gras colors, purple green and gold) or anything creative

* Lots of strands of beads in the Mardi Gras colors and any other color you like

* Decorations like confetti, banners or streamers

For drinks, you'll want to have the Hurricane. Food is usually typical New Orleans dishes like red beans and rice or dirty rice; or even a seafood gumbo. For sweets try pralines or a king cake.

As for music we have plenty of options for Mardi Gras and New Orleans tunes to get your Mardi Gras party rolling. Here's a link to a previous post to get your mojo going. Click here!

Remember you can go ahead and get your celebration started, Mardi Gras Day, February 16, 2021 is the LAST day of the season. After that it's Ash Wednesday, so get your party started NOW!

Any questions or if you want to share, comment below. 

Thanks for stopping by, have fun!

Sondra Carpenter
The Mardi Gras Girl

Mardi Gras Girl Blog 2020 Update

 

This year has been a challenge for us all around the world. My condolences go out to all who have lost loved ones in the pandemic outbreak this year. 

The Mardi Gras Girl Blog will continue to post information on Mardi Gras and keep readers up with changes in the schedule of parades. They won't be during the Carnival season as usual but possibly in May. 

Although travel to New Orleans is something to look forward to in the near future,  this blog will feature ways to bring the joy and festivity of Mardi Gras to your home.

Mardi Gras parties where masks and colored beads as well as traditional New Orleans cuisine can be prepared can be a way to have fun especially during a time when some fun is needed.

Any comments? Please post below.

Sondra Carpenter

The Mardi Gras Girl

Interesting Facts About The Mardi Gras Mask

The wearing of masks for Carnival celebrations dates back to Europe in the 1700's. In New Orleans parading began in 1857 and masks were worn during balls held by secret societies, now known as krewes. Masking is a way of concealing one's identity and gives the individual an opportunity to reveal a part of their personality not usually shared in public. Also class distinctions and societal taboos are blurred during Mardi Gras when masked party guests indulge during the Carnival season. After all this is traditionally the time to let loose before Lent!

Masks can be made with a wide range of materials and ornamentation. Feathers, beads, sequins, bows, studs...whatever you can think of! The amazing creativity that goes into the mask wearer's imagination is a big part of what makes Mardi Gras so much fun. Plus if you wear a really unique mask you may draw some extra attention from the float riders during the parades. That means you might get more beads and throws!

Another interesting fact: It is the law in New Orleans that anyone riding on a parade float is required to wear a mask, although individuals walking through the streets and particularly entering businesses are only allowed to wear them on Fat Tuesday.

Click here to read this interesting article about Mardi Gras masks.

Thanks for visiting. Feel free to comment below.

Sondra Carpenter
The Mardi Gras Girl