You can't celebrate Mardi Gras without food, even in 2021 when celebrations will look different! How will you get fat on this Tuesday without lots of indulgent treats and special fare that only makes an appearance once a year at the Mardi Gras parties, parades, and celebrations?
I have never been to a real New Orleans Mardi Gras parade or any of the associated activities because the idea of being around that many festive people at once is too much. Maybe one day I will get a balcony room on a parade route, because that seems to be the way to enjoy it! For now, food is as close as we will get.
Mardi Gras Colors
You'll see lots of purple, green, and gold in these treats, and for good reason — they are the official colors of Mardi Gras. Many people know the colors have symbolism. Purple is for justice, green is for faith, and gold of course, is for power (the kind comes from money!).
But MardiGrasNewOrleans.com says the truth about the colors is a little less neatly packaged than that. But really, who cares, bright colors in a dreary winter season are always welcomed!
Mardi Gras Snacks
Daiquiris and Drinks
Drinks are part of what make the party get truly rolling for Mardi Gras, so pull out the rum and the blender. If you need a booze-free but still festive option, try the brightly hued lavender lemonade.
Virtual Carnival
With the pandemic still being a concern, Mardi Gras looks a lot different in the Big Easy too. People have decorated their houses to look like floats! Eater rounded up the best food themed house floats, and they are spectacular. There are several ways to participate virtually, from king cake baking class events, to a self 5k, and a virtual tour of the Mardi Gras Museum.
It may not be quite the same carefree event as usual, but use a little creativity! Then you can enjoy it almost the same way as if you were on the parade route. Go throw up in the street in front of your house and lay in the yard to get a little but of that Bourbon Street feeling without having to worry about being pickpocketed in your moment of misery. Just kidding, don't get wasted, just eat too much food and drink moderately. Enjoy the Carnival season!
