It’s Mardi Gras!
February 28th is officially “Fat Tuesday,” the biggest Mardi Gras party of the year, but New Orleans is a non-stop party throughout the month of February. The first party of the day is the Krewe of Zulu at 8 a.m., founded in 1909 by a laborer group who organized the club called “The Tramps.” The group headed to Pythian Theater to see a musical comedy skit series including “There Never Was and Never Will Be a King Like Me” based on the Zulu Tribe. Thus, the Zulu Krewe was born.
The Zulu group was mostly made up of men in the Benevolent Aid Society, a largely black community group where members received financial help when burying loved ones (after paying small regular dues). Every ward of the era had their own “clubs” and The Tramps were just one. History shows the club marched in Mardi Gras parades as early as 1901, but not as the Zulu Krewe until 1909.
I Love a Parade
The next Fat Tuesday parade is the famous Krewe of Rex at 10 a.m. with their historic costumes and bright colors. Boasting more parades than anyone else, Krewe of Rex is what many people think of when imagining Mardi Gras. Founded in 1872, Rex is the oldest organized group participating in the annual parades.
Krewe of Elks Orleans, Krewe of Crescent City, Krewe of Argus, Krewe of Elks Jefferson, Krewe of Jefferson and Krewe of Lyra round out the parades that go non-stop throughout the day. Of course, it’s the parties in the streets, bars, restaurants and clubs that really make the experience unique. Book your room early, or try your luck walking in and snagging a guest room someone else canceled last minute.