If you've ever wondered whether Carnival exists in the United States, the answer is yes! But, unlike what happens in Brazil, the celebration has unique characteristics and is called Mardi Gras. This event, which takes place mainly in New Orleans, Louisiana, is one of the country's most iconic festivals, bringing together parades, costumes, music and a festive spirit that is both reminiscent of - and different from - the Brazilian Carnival. In addition, Mardi Gras has spread to other parts of the U.S., including a special version in the parks of the Universal Orlando.
Let's understand the history, traditions and curiosities of this celebration that moves millions of people every year.
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HideMardi Gras (a French expression meaning "Shrove Tuesday") has its roots in european catholic tradition. Just like Carnival in BrazilIt marks the last big celebration before the Ash Wednesdaywhich starts the Lent - the 40-day period of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter.
The tradition came to the United States through the colonizers French at the beginning of the 18th century. The first record of a Mardi Gras celebration in America dates back to 1699when the French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville arrived in the south of the current state of Louisiana and named a place as Mardi Gras Pointe. The festival gained momentum when New Orleans was founded in 1718, becoming one of the pillars of local culture.
In the early years, the festival was an aristocratic event, with masquerade balls and sophisticated dinners. But over the course of the 19th century, public parades began to appear, becoming what we know today.
Although Mardi Gras and the Brazilian Carnival have similar Catholic roots, the festivities have taken very different paths throughout history:
| Aspect | Mardi Gras (USA) | Carnival (Brazil) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | France (colonization) | Portugal (colonization) |
| Main date | Tuesday before Ash Wednesday | Up to 5 days before Ash Wednesday |
| Most famous place | New Orleans, Louisiana | Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Salvador, Recife... |
| Party style | Float parades, jazz bands, necklace distribution and street parties | Samba schools, carnival blocks, micaretas, electric trios |
| Typical music | Jazz, Brass Bands, Zydeco | Samba, Axé, Frevo, Marchinhas |
| Costumes | Venetian masks, extravagant costumes, royal theme | Various costumes, abadás and painted bodies |
| Typical food | King Cake (cake with hidden beans) | Feijoada, barbecue, typical regional food |
The main difference is that Brazilian Carnival spread throughout the country and is celebrated in various ways, while Mardi Gras is concentrated in some American states, with New Orleans being the epicenter of the party.
1. Iconic parades and the famous "Krewes"
The parades Mardi Gras events are organized by groups called Krewes - secret societies that plan the floats, costumes and themes for the year. Each Krewe has its own name and tradition, and some of the most famous are:
- Krewe of Rex - one of the oldest, responsible for crowning the "King of Carnival".
- Krewe of Zulu - traditionally led by the African-American community, is famous for handing out hand-painted coconuts.
- Krewe of Bacchus - known for its grandiose parades and the participation of celebrities.
The floats are huge and very elaborateoften with historical, mythological or cultural themes.
2. The tradition of necklaces, coins and throws
If you've ever seen pictures of Mardi Gras, you've probably noticed the crowds with their arms raised trying to catch colored bead necklaces. This tradition emerged in the 19th century and has become a symbol of the event.
In addition to necklaces, the Krewes also distribute doubloons, cups, toys and other gifts. The unwritten rule is: "the livelier you are, the more gifts you get!"
3. The use of masks and extravagant costumes
Masks are a legacy of French and Venetian Carnival balls. During Mardi Gras, it's common to see people wearing decorated masks, feathers and colorful clothesIt's also a reference to characters such as kings, queens and mystical figures.
Curiosity: by law, anyone on a float must wear a mask!
4. Music, dance and jazz as a soundtrack
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazzAnd the city doesn't let up during Mardi Gras. Brass bands roam the streets playing jazz, blues and zydeco - a typical Louisiana musical style.
5. Typical food: the famous King Cake
O King Cake is a colorful cake covered in purple, green and gold sugar (the official colors of Mardi Gras). Inside is a small plastic bean or doll. Whoever finds the doll has to buying the next cake or organizing the next party.
Although New Orleans is the epicenter of the celebration, other cities also hold Mardi Gras events:
- Mobile, Alabama - considered the oldest Mardi Gras in the USA, with roots dating back to 1703.
- St. Louis, Missouri - holds one of the largest parades outside of Louisiana.
- Galveston, Texas - there are parades and beach parties.
- Pensacola, Florida - brings a more familiar and relaxed Mardi Gras.
Madri Gras at Universal Orlando: The Carnival of Theme Parks
For those who want to experience some of the energy of Mardi Gras without traveling all the way to New Orleans, the Universal Studios Florida offers an incredible alternative: the Universal's Mardi Gras. This annual event transforms the park into a real American carnival, with parades, typical food and live shows, guaranteeing a fun experience for the whole family. Inspired by the original Louisiana tradition, the event takes place every year between February and April, with a program full of special attractions.
Unlike the celebration in New Orleans, which can be more adult-oriented due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages and the late-night parties, Universal's Mardi Gras is a family event accessible to all ages. Visitors can enjoy the party without any worries, as the park's structure guarantees safety and a more controlled atmosphere. Even so, Universal maintains the essence of the celebration, with impressive floats, lively music and the distribution of the iconic colored necklaces.
Another distinguishing feature of Mardi Gras at Universal is the gastronomic diversity. In addition to traditional Louisiana dishes such as jambalaya, gumbo and beignetsThe event brings influences from different cultures that celebrate Carnival around the world. During the festival, the park sets up themed kiosks with typical dishes from countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Canada and Germany, allowing visitors to take a real gastronomic journey while enjoying the event.
With a special program and an impeccable setting, Universal Studios' Mardi Gras offers an immersive experience that combines the magic of the theme parks with the joy of Carnival. If you're in Orlando during this period, it's worth including this party in your itinerary to experience some of the contagious energy of Mardi Gras without leaving Florida.
What can I expect from the event?
- Themed parades - Spectacular floats parade through the park, with costumed performers throwing necklaces to visitors.
- Typical foods - The kiosks offer traditional dishes such as King Cake, beignets and jambalaya.
- Live shows - Famous artists perform on the main stage, bringing even more excitement.
- Carnival atmosphere - Decorated streets, live jazz bands and incredible costumes guarantee an immersive experience.
Unlike the Mardi Gras in New Orleans, the one at Universal is more family-oriented and aimed at all agesThis makes it a perfect option for those who want to enjoy the party without excess.
For those who have a vacation home in OrlandoMardi Gras at Universal is just one of the major events that take place in the city throughout the year. Unlike seasonal tourist destinations, Orlando has no low seasonThe city is a major tourist destination, welcoming visitors from all over the world during the 12 months of the year. The city is one of the main tourist hubs in the USA, attracting families, groups of friends and individual travelers not only for the theme parks, but also for conventions, sporting events and festivals such as Mardi Gras.
This constant flow of tourists makes vacation rentals an excellent investmentThis ensures high demand and excellent opportunities for financial return. Those who invest in a property in Orlando can benefit from this continuous movement, offering comfortable and spacious accommodation for visitors who prefer the privacy and cost-effectiveness of a home rather than hotels. Whether for family vacations, events such as Mardi Gras or even frequent visitors to the parks, Orlando continues to be a highly profitable destination for vacation rental owners.
Definitely! O Mardi Gras is a celebration that combines tradition, culture and fun, making it one of the liveliest events in the United States. Whether in New Orleanswhere the festival takes on a historic and vibrant feel, or in the Universal OrlandoMardi Gras, where the event is adapted for the whole family, offers a unique experience. For those who enjoy festivities, live music, parades and gastronomy, this is an unmissable opportunity to experience the spirit of Mardi Gras in the heart of the USA.
As well as being a visually stunning festival, Mardi Gras carries a strong cultural identity. The mix of French, Spanish and African-American influences in Louisiana helped create this authentic celebration, which has evolved over the centuries to become a symbol of the city of New Orleans. Universal Orlando's version, on the other hand, brings a modern and accessible touch, allowing tourists from all over the world to join in the fun in a safe and themed environment.
Whatever destination you choose, one thing is certain: Mardi Gras offers unforgettable moments and lots of positive energy. If you're planning to travel during this period, it's worth considering this experience in your itinerary. After all, Carnival may take different forms around the world, but the desire to celebrate life and culture is universal.
