It’s that time of year when we all embrace the Mardi Gras spirit and let the good times roll. If you’re thinking about a Mardi Gras themed party that’s fun, colorful, and family-friendly, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, let’s dive deep into the world of Mardi Gras party ideas, decorations, mouth-watering food, and lots of festive activities. So, grab your masks, feathered boas, and a slice of King Cake because we’re about to celebrate in style!
What is a Mardi Gras party?
Now, for those of you who may not be familiar, Mardi Gras is this amazing, lively celebration that’s all about letting loose before the more solemn season of Lent. It’s like the ultimate pre-Lenten bash, and it’s a big deal in New Orleans and the rest of the world.
Think of it as a big, flashy, fun street party! People deck themselves out in colorful costumes, masks, and necklaces, and the streets are filled with music, dancing, and all-around good vibes. It’s like a carnival extravaganza!
And oh, the food! Traditional foods like gumbo, jambalaya, and king cake are must-haves. King Cake is this delicious pastry with a surprise hidden inside, like a small toy or a figurine. Everyone had fun, and whoever found the surprise would be “king” or “queen” for the day!
Now, let’s talk about the decor! Bright purples, greens, and golds are the colors for Mardi Gras, so get ready to use your decorations. Feathers, masks and balloons galore – it’s a real visual feast!
And don’t forget the music! Jazz and lively tunes set the perfect mood for this lively celebration. You’ll want to have a playlist that gets everyone up and dancing!
So, if you’re looking for an excuse to let your hair down, Mardi Gras is just the ticket. It’s a time to celebrate life, love, and good times with family and friends. So throw on some beads, pour some gumbo, and let the good times roll, y’all!
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Mardi Gras Decorations: Bringing the Spirit of NOLA into Your Home
A Mardi Gras party is a bright, colorful affair! And so much fun to decorate! Think bright, attractive colors and elaborate decorations. Read on for our favorite ideas for decorating for Mardi Gras.
Mardi Gras Colors: Start by decking out your party space in the iconic colors of Mardi Gras: purple, green, and gold. Think balloons, streamers, and tablecloths in this vibrant color.
Feather masks: Include feathered masks as centerpieces or hang them on the walls. You can even provide masks for your guests to wear as they enter your Mardi Gras wonderland.
Beads and Bling: Scatter colorful Mardi Gras beads and sparkling costume jewelry throughout the party area. They make amazing decorations and party favors.
Faux Palm Trees: Create a New Orleans-style atmosphere with fake palm trees or ferns placed strategically around your space.
Candle Light: Use candles in vibrant, jewel-toned holders to create a warm and inviting ambiance. This works especially well for evening parties.
Jazz it Up: Play some traditional New Orleans jazz music in the background to set the mood and get everyone in the Mardi Gras spirit.
Mardi Gras floats: Make mini Mardi Gras floats out of cardboard and decorate them with fake flowers, streamers, and small figurines. They can be placed on tables or used as a backdrop.
Masquerade Centerpieces: Fashion masquerade-themed centerpieces using decorative masks, beads, and feathers. They can be placed on dining tables for an extra dose of elegance.
Mardi Gras Party Food: A Feast Fit for a King (or Queen)!
Food is a big part of a Mardi Gras party. Here are some of the traditional Mardi Gras foods you may want to include on your Mardi Gras party menu.
King Cake: Let’s start with the star of the show – King Cake! This colorful, cinnamon-infused treat is a Mardi Gras tradition. Don’t forget to keep a small plastic baby figurine inside for good luck (and to find out who is the “king” or “queen” of your party).
Gumbo: Serve up a hearty pot of gumbo, a hearty Louisiana stew filled with sausage, chicken, shrimp, and okra. This is a soul-warming dish that will transport your guests straight to the bayou.
Jambalaya: Jambalaya is another Mardi Gras must-have. It’s a delicious rice dish made with sausage, chicken, and creole spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Crawfish Boil: If you can get your hands on some crawfish, hosting a crawfish boil is a real way to celebrate. Serve them with corn, potatoes, and lots of Cajun seasoning.
Beignets: You can’t have a Mardi Gras party without beignets! Soft, powdery sugar-covered donuts are a beloved New Orleans treat. Serve them fresh and hot.
Muffulettas: Make classic muffuletta sandwiches with layers of cured meats, cheese, and delicious olive salad on Italian bread. Cut them into small portions for an easy snack.
Shrimp Po’Boys: Treat your guests to shrimp po’ boys – crispy fried shrimp sandwiches on French bread with lettuce, tomato and remoulade sauce.
Red Beans and Rice: Red beans and rice are a comfort food staple of Creole cuisine. It’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for a Mardi Gras feast.
Sazerac Cocktails: For the grown-ups, whip up some Sazerac cocktails, a classic New Orleans drink made with rye whiskey, absinthe, and bitters.
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What to Do at a Mardi Gras Party: Activities for All Ages
There are tons of fun ways to celebrate Mardi Gras, with activities for the whole family to enjoy. Here are some of our favorite things to do at a Mardi Gras party to really get your party going!
Mask Decoration: Set up a mask decorating station with plain masks, markers, feathers, sequins, and glue. Kids and adults alike can get creative and design their own Mardi Gras masks.
Bead Tossing: Get the party started with a grain washing contest. Give prizes to the best bead throwers and have plenty of beads on hand for everyone to enjoy.
Mardi Gras Parade: Host a mini Mardi Gras parade in your backyard or living room. Let the children dress up, and provide instruments or noises for them to march with.
Karaoke and Dance-Off: Create a karaoke stage and let your guests show off their singing and dancing talents. Award prizes for the best performers.
Mardi Gras Trivia: Test your guests’ knowledge with Mardi Gras trivia. Make a list of fun and challenging questions about the history and traditions of Mardi Gras.
Balcony Decoration: If you have a balcony or porch, set up a decorating station where guests can make their own mini float or decorate their viewing area for a “parade.”
Pin the Mask on the Jester: Put a Mardi Gras twist on the classic game of “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” by playing “Pin the Mask on the Jester.”
Mask Parade: Organize a mask parade where everyone will show off their decorated masks. Make it a competition with prizes for the most creative, colorful, or elaborate masks.
Conclusion: Let’s Have a Good Time at Your Mardi Gras Extravaganza!
Mardi Gras is all about embracing the festive spirit, indulging in delicious food, and having a blast with friends and family. By incorporating these Mardi Gras party ideas, you’ll create a lively, memorable event that captures the essence of the Big Easy. So, get ready to let the good times roll, and enjoy an amazing Mardi Gras celebration with your loved ones.
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About the Author
Jane Sheriff is the founder, creative director, party planner and mother of three. She started Darling Celebrations in 2012 to share easy and beautiful ideas for celebrating life’s special events.
