To those of us from New Orleans, Carnival and Mardi Gras are the most important times of the year, not only because of the revenue it generates for the city, but because of the rich and deeply cherished history and traditions that fill our city. As Orleanians we are taught about the histories of the various krewes, how to march in a parade, how to appear at a grand ball, the many kings and queens. We hold deep respect for our royalty even after their reigns have ended, and we discuss past Gras' throughout the year, beginning on Ash Wednesday at the Cathedral.
However, now that Katrina has tossed me out into the world, I am seeing that everybody else has a very different view of Carnivaltide.
Does anyone know the historical significance of Carnival and Mardi Gras? Does anybody even care? Is it really possible that people truly believe a celebration that is over 3 centuries old in North America lasted that long just for drinking and bare bosoms?
Talk to me, tell me what you know.
2006-07-03 13:05:15 · 4 answers · asked by Vatican Lokey 3 in Arts & Humanities ➔ History
I am a native and have been living on the West coast for a while now. To me, it has great significance. But like you, I very quickly discovered that other people DO just consider it to be an excuse for debauchery and drunkenness. I can't tell you how many times I've heard people say they wanted to go to Louisiana for Mardi Gras so that they could drink and party. To me it's not about that. I place more value in the festivities, tradition, cultural significance, and the camaraderie. Unfortunately most people have no idea what it's about, nor do they care.
2006-07-03 13:41:59 · answer #1 · answered by Ashley 5 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Most, of not all, Eurpoean Catholic countries have a Carnival celebration that equates to Mardi Gras, though of course its different city to city.
I visited new orleans about 8 years ago, and went on the ferry across to mardi gras world, where they do all the floats and costumes. They showed a really good film explaining the history of the holiday in new orleans, and the parades and the beads and everything.
2006-07-03 20:49:28 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, i do ... i live 40 miles west of New Orleans, and agree that what we as natives know and respect about the tradition of Mardi Gras is just not something people care about or try to understand and respect... the fact is that Mardi Gras is revenue for the city and surrounding areas and is best known for Bourbon, boobs, beads, and never having a sober moment.
2006-07-03 20:17:47 · answer #3 · answered by DeeDee 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
well to most of the world it has no historical importance. most of asia, africa and europe could care less, south america has their own festivals of carnivale and for 49 out of the 50 states its really just boobs and beer
2006-07-03 20:30:28 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋