Mardi Gras Traditions by RW Tanner
From as far back as the 18th century, Mardi Gras has been celebrated in some form along the Gulf Coast. The only time that this was not true was during the period of the Civil War. Today, Mardi Gras brings in visitors from all around the world to celebrate this festive period that usually occurs in the middle of winter. Given the temperate climate of the Gulf Coast, it?"'""s only natural that those who are unlucky enough to have to endure harsh winters in the northern parts of the United States would choose to spend some quality fun time in Mobile and New Orleans.
The traditional holiday is actually Catholic in origin and is the last Tuesday before Lent begins. Most Catholics traditionally fast for Lent, giving up at least some indulgence for the duration of the season. It is the self-imposed restriction that actually gave rise to the season of Mardi Gras. In the weeks leading up to the season of Lent, some people over indulge a little in preparation for the somber weeks of Lent.
However, one certainly does not have to be Catholic to celebrate Mardi Gras. All that is necessary for that is a sense of fun and adventure. Depending on what city you decide to visit during Mardi Gras, you can expect to experience different versions of the celebration. A trip to New Orleans can be expected to be wilder and considerably more liberal in terms of the sights seen there. Of course, anyone who plans to attend Mardi Gras in New Orleans with children should take some things into consideration. These could include the immense size of the crowds that descend during this time period. Special care should be taken to insure that a close eye is kept on small children as it is quite easy to lose a little one in the mass. A good idea is to write the child?"'""s and parents name with a contact number on the inside of the child?"'""s clothing so if a separation does occur, authorities have an easier time identifying both child and parent. Special precautions should also be taken for needs such as potty breaks because the lines for port-a-potties can be long and toilet paper scarce. Waterless hand sanitizers are a good idea as well. While the crowds in New Orleans can be daunting, a little good planning can ensure a safe and fun trip for all in the family. One last note on visiting New Orleans for Mardi Gras: Bourbon Street during this time may not be for younger members of the family. Obviously, adults traveling without children are less restrained and a trip to Bourbon Street can be quite a revelation. The drag queens come out literally here and it is quite a sight.
If traveling to Mobile for Mardi Gras, there is definitely a party atmosphere, however it is considered by most to be more family friendly. The crowds are somewhat smaller than in New Orleans but many of the same precautions should be considered when enjoying the festivities with small children. With a little bit of planning and caution, Mardi Gras truly can be a fun filled family activity.
Ronnie Tanner is a contributing writer at Toomey's Mardi Gras. He writes about St. Patricks Day Supplies and other industry specific topics.
Article Source: ArticleSnatch Free Article Directory
From as far back as the 18th century, Mardi Gras has been celebrated in some form along the Gulf Coast. The only time that this was not true was during the period of the Civil War. Today, Mardi Gras brings in visitors from all around the world to celebrate this festive period that usually occurs in the middle of winter. Given the temperate climate of the Gulf Coast, it?"'""s only natural that those who are unlucky enough to have to endure harsh winters in the northern parts of the United States would choose to spend some quality fun time in Mobile and New Orleans.
The traditional holiday is actually Catholic in origin and is the last Tuesday before Lent begins. Most Catholics traditionally fast for Lent, giving up at least some indulgence for the duration of the season. It is the self-imposed restriction that actually gave rise to the season of Mardi Gras. In the weeks leading up to the season of Lent, some people over indulge a little in preparation for the somber weeks of Lent.
However, one certainly does not have to be Catholic to celebrate Mardi Gras. All that is necessary for that is a sense of fun and adventure. Depending on what city you decide to visit during Mardi Gras, you can expect to experience different versions of the celebration. A trip to New Orleans can be expected to be wilder and considerably more liberal in terms of the sights seen there. Of course, anyone who plans to attend Mardi Gras in New Orleans with children should take some things into consideration. These could include the immense size of the crowds that descend during this time period. Special care should be taken to insure that a close eye is kept on small children as it is quite easy to lose a little one in the mass. A good idea is to write the child?"'""s and parents name with a contact number on the inside of the child?"'""s clothing so if a separation does occur, authorities have an easier time identifying both child and parent. Special precautions should also be taken for needs such as potty breaks because the lines for port-a-potties can be long and toilet paper scarce. Waterless hand sanitizers are a good idea as well. While the crowds in New Orleans can be daunting, a little good planning can ensure a safe and fun trip for all in the family. One last note on visiting New Orleans for Mardi Gras: Bourbon Street during this time may not be for younger members of the family. Obviously, adults traveling without children are less restrained and a trip to Bourbon Street can be quite a revelation. The drag queens come out literally here and it is quite a sight.
If traveling to Mobile for Mardi Gras, there is definitely a party atmosphere, however it is considered by most to be more family friendly. The crowds are somewhat smaller than in New Orleans but many of the same precautions should be considered when enjoying the festivities with small children. With a little bit of planning and caution, Mardi Gras truly can be a fun filled family activity.
Ronnie Tanner is a contributing writer at Toomey's Mardi Gras. He writes about St. Patricks Day Supplies and other industry specific topics.
Article Source: ArticleSnatch Free Article Directory