New Orleans Celebrates 50 Years of Mardi Gras Traditions

From pagan rituals to the Romanov connection, the annual carnival has deep historical roots in the Big Easy.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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New Orleans is gearing up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its iconic Mardi Gras celebration, a vibrant cultural event with roots tracing back to ancient pagan rituals and the French colonization of Louisiana. The modern traditions of masked balls, themed parades, and the iconic King Cake have evolved over centuries, with the Mystick Krewe of Comus playing a pivotal role in shaping the modern carnival.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras is a cherished annual tradition in New Orleans, serving as a celebration of the city's rich history and diverse cultural influences. As the event marks a major milestone, it highlights the enduring appeal of the carnival's unique blend of pageantry, music, and community spirit, which have helped the celebration withstand the test of time.

The details

The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced back to pagan rituals in ancient Rome, connected to the end of winter and the anticipation of the harvest season. These traditions spread throughout Europe and were later adapted following the rise of Christianity. The name 'Mardi Gras' itself, French for 'Fat Tuesday,' reflects the custom of indulging in rich foods before the start of Lent. The celebration was brought to North America by French colonists, with the first documented Mardi Gras event taking place in 1703 in Fort Louis de la Mobile, Alabama, before moving to New Orleans in 1718. By the 1730s, Mardi Gras was being celebrated in New Orleans, initially with elegant balls that later evolved into street parades by the late 1830s.

  • The first documented Mardi Gras celebration in North America took place in 1703 in Fort Louis de la Mobile, Alabama.
  • Mardi Gras traditions were brought to New Orleans in 1718.
  • By the 1730s, Mardi Gras was being celebrated in New Orleans, initially with elegant balls.
  • Street parades began in the late 1830s, illuminated by gas lamps and torches.
  • The Mystick Krewe of Comus was founded in 1856, establishing the modern traditions of masked balls and themed parades.

The players

Mystick Krewe of Comus

A group of six Louisiana residents who founded the Mystick Krewe of Comus in 1856, establishing the modern traditions of masked balls and themed parades for Mardi Gras.

Governor Warmoth

The Louisiana governor who signed the 'Mardi Gras Act' in 1875, officially making Fat Tuesday a legal holiday in the state.

Grand Duke Alexei Alexandrovich

The brother of Emperor Alexander III of Russia, who visited New Orleans in 1872, inspiring the creation of the 'Rex' float and the adoption of the official Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold.

Mardi Gras Indians

African American communities who created their own vibrant Mardi Gras traditions in response to being excluded from the traditional krewes due to segregation.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in New Orleans, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

As New Orleans celebrates the 50th anniversary of its iconic Mardi Gras celebration, the event's deep historical roots and enduring cultural significance serve as a testament to the city's resilience and ability to preserve its unique traditions in the face of change.