|
WHAT IS
MARDI GRAS |
What is the meaning of Mardi Gras?
Carnival, which comes from a
Latin phrase meaning "removal of meat," is the three day
period preceding the beginning of Lent, the Sunday,
Monday, and Tuesday immediately before Ash Wednesday,
which is the first day of the Lenten Season (some
traditions count Carnival as the entire period of time
between Epiphany and Ash Wednesday). The three days before
Ash Wednesday are also known as Shrovetide ("shrove" is an
Old English word meaning "to repent"). The Tuesday just
before Ash Wednesday is called Shrove Tuesday, or is more
popularly known by the French term Mardi Gras, meaning
"Fat Tuesday," contrasting to the fasting during Lent. The
entire three day period has now come to be known in many
areas as Mardi Gras.
The official colors for Mardi Gras are purple, green,
and gold. These colors were chosen in 1872 by the King of
Carnival, Rex. He chose these colors to stand for the
following:
Purple represents justice
Green stands for faith
Gold stands for power |
| |
|
|
|
GRAND
MARAIS MARDI GRAS |
Grand Marais, a rural community, is deeply rooted in the
tradition and celebration of Mardi Gras. Annually, this
little community is host to thousands who come to join in
festivities. Mardi Clubs partake in the pageantry of
beautiful costumes, but also are known for unique
creations of Hollywood style monster themed costumes.
In the week preceding Mardi Gras day, maskers will visit
homes in the community, where there is usually a treat for
their enjoyment (homemade donuts, cakes, coffee and
punch.)
This year our community proudly celebrates its 28th annual
celebration.
Its a wonderful experience for the entire family, so join
us for the fun.
Annual Parade
Tuesday - February 16, 2010
11:00 a.m.
Route: Olivier Road and College Road
Directions: U.S. Highway 90 between New Iberia and
Jeanerette
Where: Moni Ami
Highway 90
|
Mardi Gras Links |
|
Purple represents justice
Green stands for faith
Gold stands for power |
The King Cake is
believed to have originated in France around the 12th
century. These early Europeans celebrated the coming of
the three wise men bearing gifts twelve days after
Christmas calling it the Feast of the epiphany, Twelfth
Night, or King's Day.
The main part of the celebration was the baking of a
King’s Cake to honor the three Kings. The cakes were made
circular to portray the circular route used by the kings
to get to the Christ Child, which was taken to confuse
King Herod who was trying to follow the wise men so he
could kill the Christ Child. In these early King Cakes a
bean, pea, or coin was hidden inside the cake. The person
who got the hidden piece was declared King for the day or
was said to have good luck in the coming year. In
Louisiana, Twelfth Night also signifies the beginning of
the carnival season which ends with Mardi Gras Day. The
bean, pea and the coin have been replaced by a small
plastic baby to symbolize the Christ Child. The person who
gets the baby is expected to carry on the carnival
festivities by hosting the next King Cake party. King
Cakes are decorated in the traditional Mardi Gras colors;
gold (for power)
green (for faith) and
purple (for justice). |
|
|
 |
|
