10 Iconic Mardi Gras Traditions to Celebrate

From beads and masks to king cakes and flambeaux, these are the must-know customs of the New Orleans festival.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 2:31pm

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Mardi Gras is a vibrant celebration with deep roots in culture, faith, and history. From the iconic throws of beads and coconuts to the extravagant parades and costumes, this pre-Lenten festival in New Orleans is filled with beloved traditions. We break down the 10 most popular Mardi Gras customs, including the significance behind the purple, gold, and green colors, the crowning of the Mardi Gras king, and the centuries-old practice of flambeaux lighting the way for the parades.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras is a beloved annual celebration in New Orleans that attracts millions of revelers from around the world. Understanding the history and meaning behind the festival's most iconic traditions helps provide context and appreciation for this unique cultural event.

The details

Mardi Gras, which translates to "Fat Tuesday" in French, is a pre-Lenten celebration where Catholics and others indulge in decadent foods before the 40-day fast of Lent. The tradition of wearing masks dates back to the festival's origins, when anonymity allowed people to mingle freely without class constraints. Bead throwing from parade floats began in the late 19th century when a carnival king tossed fake gems to his supporters. The Krewe of Rex, a prominent parade organizer, established the iconic purple, gold, and green color scheme in 1872. Parades have been integral to Mardi Gras since the beginning, with krewes controlling the aesthetic of their own floats. King cake, a circular treat with a hidden plastic baby inside, symbolizes the three kings who brought gifts to baby Jesus. Zulu coconuts, hand-painted and glittery, have been a signature "throw" from the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club for over a century. Flambeaux, or torch bearers, have lit the way for Mardi Gras parades since the festival's origins.

  • Mardi Gras is celebrated annually on the day before Ash Wednesday, which in 2026 will fall on February 17.
  • The Krewe of Rex established the official Mardi Gras color scheme of purple, gold, and green in 1872.
  • The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club first handed out decorated coconuts as "throws" in 1909.

The players

Krewe of Rex

A prominent parade organizer that established the official Mardi Gras color scheme of purple, gold, and green in 1872.

Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club

One of the oldest African American krewes that has been handing out decorated coconuts as "throws" during Mardi Gras parades for over a century.

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The takeaway

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a vibrant celebration steeped in rich cultural traditions, from the iconic throws of beads and coconuts to the extravagant parades and costumes. Understanding the history and meaning behind these customs provides a deeper appreciation for this beloved annual festival.