One of my favorite things to do on Mardi Gras Day is to dress up in costume and walk the streets of New Orleans. Some years my husband and I will join in the merriment of the Societé de Saint Anne, some years we’ll join his extended family where they camp out on Napoleon Avenue and some years we’ll walk down to St. Charles Avenue and just stroll the parade route.
Though wearing a mask on the streets of New Orleans was legalized in 1827, which was even before the first official krewe was established in 1857, I can’t imagine a Mardi Gras Day in this city without the joy of wondering who might be under each mask. (Masks are now only legal to wear on Mardi Gras Day – thanks to Smithsonian Magazine’s blog for the links and great piece.)
I am also known for taking pictures of anything I find interesting (thanks for the habit, Mom), and my friends have often called on me to help them remember which costume or ball gown they wore which year.
Below are photos of some of my favorite costumes/costume groups from last week, from a family of Pixar characters, to Rainbow Brite and Strawberry Shortcake all grown up, to Cecila “The Mystic Queen of Beads” and her flambeaux escort. I hope you enjoy!
