"Fat Tuesday", and this is how the French translates Mardi Gras, - one of the most grandiose and colorful carnivals of the world . The holiday arose in the 18th century, when the territory of the present state of Louisiana was administered by France . After the arrival of the Spaniards this holiday was banned, but soon the locals nevertheless made it back . American Mardi Gras - February madness, marked by costumed procession before the Great Easter Lent . Here is the great jazz of New Orleans, musicians, blowing their cheeks, blowing from each angle , confetti and tinsel drip out of carts to the crowd, and eyes can not believe all the unimaginable amount of colors dancing around .

American Mardi Gras - February New Orleans madness, marked by costumed procession before the Great Easter post.

Particularly noteworthy in these days are called two parades: the parade of Bacchus, taking place on the last Sunday before the "Fat Tuesday" and dedicated to such vicious entertainment as booze, cards and women, as well as the Indian parade, distinguished for its exquisite splendor and the brightness of the carnival costumes . The culmination of this celebration of life comes, of course, on Tuesday - no one is working, the movement is blocked, and thousands of people come out onto the streets of the city, ready to rush into the abyss of incredible events that so easily give these days Orleans .

In 1872 Grand Duke Aleksei Aleksandrovich Romanov visited the festival, followed by Lydia Thompson in America for her beloved, actress
Fragments of parades

By the way, the festival has three official colors - yellow, green and purple. These colors denote faith, strength and justice and are even included in the charter of the carnival. So, if you decide to attend this grandiose celebration, do not forget to put something on this palette.

The main venue for the carnival is traditionally the French Quarter on Bourbon Street. But the locals still advise to go to the Garden District (Garden District) and St. Petersburg. Charles Avenue (Charles Avenue), although it is worth considering that even on the most ordinary day of the holiday all the places are occupied even 4 hours before the start of the parade. So, going to see the action, come beforehand.

To get the most precious carnival trophy - a coconut thrown from a cortege - you need to attract the attention of the "throwers" at all costs. To achieve the desired effect, it is customary to unbutton the blouses and tear up the vests.