Rich in history and immeasurably festive, Mardi Gras is a time for celebration. With a mix of Caribbean, Spanish, and French influences, Mardi Gras pays homage to a vast space in cultural traditions. This year, “Fat Tuesday” – as it literally translates to – falls on February 17th. While parades have been making their way through the French Quarter of New Orleans already, we figured it’s a perfect opportunity to host your own masquerade. Check out our guide below and follow our Mardi Gras Pinterest board for additional ideas and inspiration.
Spread the word about your event with easy-to-make evites. Remember to use Mardi Gras colors – purple, green and gold – and encourage guests to come dressed the part. Whether you’re donning an intricate feather mask or just accessorizing with beads, festive is the name of the game!
Plan a menu featuring the finest in Cajun and Creole creations. For appetizers, try a Jambalaya Pizza or Cajun Snack Mix. If you’re feeling bold, create entrees like Crispy Fish and Peppers. And of course, don’t forget drinks and dessert! The Kings Cake is a Mardi Gras tradition, and is not one to be missed. For libations, try the New Orleans Hurricane or festive Mardi Gras Jello Shots (with or without alcohol!)
Set the scene with DIY decorations. Make festive plates by using beads and a glue gun. Don’t forget to set out extra beads for your guests to wear! Try your hand at crafting an elegant masquerade centerpiece that will standout beautifully on your table. Printables are also an easy and effective way to decorate; grab your free downloads here and arrange them around the room.
Activities and games are the perfect way to engage your guests, and Mardi Gras has no shortage of them. Assemble a make-your-own-mask station with craft supplies like sequins, feathers, and glitter. Once every mask is complete, hold a contest to vote on a favorite. Additionally, try your hand at Mardi Gras trivia. Write out a few facts and test your friends’ knowledge. Find a guide of trivia questions here.
Dish out prizes to those who have the best mask, costume, or win at games. Theme-friendly prizes can incluse chocolate gold coins, Mardi Gras crowns, or even a bottle of Champagne. For a playful twist, give out prizes to the worst-made mask. After a few Mardi Gras-Ritas, everyone is bound to have a sense of humor.
Most of all – embrace the holiday’s traditions (be careful with those beads!), channel your inner Bourbon Street, and have fun
