Let’s face it: when you think of Mardi Gras, besides New Orleans, you think of Mardi Gras masks and costumes. It just wouldn’t be the same if everyone in the parade wore street clothes instead of costumes and masks that set them apart from the rest of the crowd. Just as we equate the coming of Christmas with a Christmas tree and lights, we equate Mardi Gras with costumes and masks in purple, green, and gold, the symbolism that has endured for over a century.
A Mardi Gras mask is to Mardi Gras as a Halloween mask is to Halloween: the tradition is lost without it. Part of the Carnival celebration that is part of Mardi Gras includes everyone wearing a costume and mask. Unlike Halloween, the wearing of a mask is not to hide your identity, but rather is part of the tradition that has been handed down for over a century. Just like the Mummers’ Parade on New Year’s, Mardi Gras would lose something without people wearing masks.
You can buy Mardi Gras masks both to wear and to hang on the wall. If you are joining in a large celebration, you may want to have one you can wear, but if you are planning a private party for friends at your home, you may also want to use some Mardi Gras masks to hang on your wall. A variety of supplies are available online for decorating your home for a Mardi Gras celebration, but you may be able to find your supplies locally if you begin looking early in the season, which officially begins January 6th and ends on Fat Tuesday, forty-seven days before Easter. The more you are able to purchase right away, the better the chances are that you will be able to find everything that you want for your party and celebration.
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