When you don’t grow up along the Louisiana/Mississippi/Alabama gulf coast, you can’t understand what a big deal Mardi Gras is! When I first moved to the Mississippi gulf coast over 30 years ago, I didn’t get what all the hoopla was about. There were crazy and loud parades where people threw colored beads and candy at you- how was this supposed to be fun? I soon discovered that school was out for two days and that was definitely reason to celebrate!
Over the years, I have come to realize what a unique time this is for people in the area. Organizations spend all year planning extravagant floats, tons and tons of throws (“throw me somethin’ mister!”), and most importantly – the Mardi Gras Balls. Parades start at least a month ahead of Fat Tuesday so that all the “Krewe’s” can have their parades and parties. King Cakes with their green, purple, and yellow colored sugar sprinkles start appearing in grocery stores the day after New Year’s. And you’re supposed to find a plastic baby inside? What?!
There is so much rich tradition wound up in Mardi Gras. It truly is an event to behold. So come on down and join us! Be a part of our community and learn about Mardi Gras yourself. Realtors at Ashurst Group would love to help!
Here are the local Mardi Gras parade guides – Fairhope, Daphne, Mobile, and Gulf Shores/Orange Beach.