Mardi Gras Beads 2010
Throwing of Mardi Gras beads out of the Mardi Gras parade floats was started in early 19th century by the Krewes. Strings of beads are thought to bring good luck for those that caught them and wear the beads. During the early 20th century beads became more and more popular.
Beads of the past were made of higher quality materials. The original beads made out glass were considered dangerous, so the Krewes began throwing plastic beads. These plastic beads are the most popular today.
Mardi Gras belongs to the City of New Orleans every year! You can drive down St. Charles Avenue any day of the year and see all styles of beads hanging in the huge oak trees that line the road. You can also see them hanging from the balcony railing. Living in New Orleans and seeing those wayward strands is a daily reminder that carnival season is just around the corner!
It is interesting that beads do not have specific significance to the barer. But colors bring significance to the beads. The traditional colors of the beads and Mardi Gras are purple, green, and gold. The color purple refers to justice, the color green suggest faith, and the color gold signifies power.
You find that you can not get enough them! The more the merrier, to trade, to collect and to throw. Beads and Mardi Gras Feather Masks go hand in hand during the Mardi Gras activities.
Last modified December 8, 2009Author 3091 > has blogged 13 times
