THE MEANING OF MARDI GRAS A 1917 Mardi Gras parade brings out a festive crowd on Canal Street
Christmas movies often contain lines about the true meaning of that holiday and how the spirit of it is the most important aspect. There aren’t many Mardi Gras movies out there, but the characters in such a film would surely have a similar moment of reflection. Before that Mardi Gras movie gets made, let’s talk to locals about what Mardi Gras means to them. “For me, Mardi Gras is my life,” explained teacher and Where Y’at contributor Kimmie Tubre. “I was born during the season and have only missed two Mardi Gras since. Both times, I was out of the country. I must say that missing Mardi Gras was pretty difficult for a NOLA girl like me.” Even those who found their way to New Orleans later in life feel that Mardi Gras is an integral part of their year and their life. Randy Traylor, Professor of Motor Vehicle Technology at Delgado Community College, has fully inserted himself into the old traditions of New Orleans Mardi Gras. “I’m not a native New Orleanian, but I feel like one now, after living here since 1978. Mardi Gras is awesome!” Traylor said. “What a great adventure in a beautiful city, with family, friends, neighbors, and, of course, new friends every year enjoying the great festivities: parades, people, food, beverages, and the main event—Endymion.” Traylor has lived on the Endymion
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Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine
parade route since 1980, and he definitely makes sure to claim a spot right outside of his house every year, even though he doesn’t watch the parade himself. “You always meet the same people every year and a lot of new folks the Saturday before Mardi Gras,” he added. “I have not seen the parade from my house in almost 30 years, though. I have been fortunate to be a krewe member in Endymion for this long and ride in the parade every year—the smiles and crowd noises, dancing in the streets, people who come from all over the world to see 3,000 krewe members bearing gifts. The celebration will be missed this year, but we will be ready next year. I love it!” Another float rider and life-long Mardi Gras enthusiast, Vee George, is proud to say that she has celebrated Mardi Gras and helped others to do so for decades. She explained, “I am born and raised in New Orleans. For the past 16 years, I have been running the parade stand for the disabled residents and for individuals
FROM ST. CHARLES HOTEL’S COMPLIMENTARY 1917 BOOKLET, SOUVENIR OF NEW ORLEANS. THE CITY THAT CARE FORGOT / LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
By Emily Hingle
