Since Mardi Gras Parades started in Orlando yesterday at Universal Studios
http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/02/06/2045733/its-time-to-shake-those-mardi.html
I guess we should talk about the Parades which actually started in January with an early one (Jan 6) but really get going today with Krewe of Claude. From Pontchartrain Drive onto Front Street and Gause Boulevard, the 24th Annual Parade featured about a dozen floats. Aside from the usual beads and trinkets, parade-goers also chucked decorated pecans -- Claude's signature throw.
Most people think of Mardi Gras as one day, the day before Ash Wednesday but that is not true. Mardis Gras is really a season. Usually starting after Epiphany (January 6th) and extending to the final Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. It is a time filled with Parades and Balls sponsored by Krewes (groups who may or maynot be charitable organizations, but all are involved in elaborate preparation for the Mardi Gras Season.)
Dues to belong can range from $20 to thousands of dollars. "Criteria for krewe membership varies similarly, ranging from exclusive organizations largely limited to relatives of previous members to other organizations open to anyone able to pay the membership fee. Krewes with low membership fees may also require members to work to help build and decorate the parade floats and make their own costumes; higher priced krewes hire professionals to do this work. Parading krewe members are usually responsible for buying their own throws, the trinkets thrown to parade spectators according to Mobile and New Orleans tradition." according to Wikipedia.com.
For more info on upcoming Mardi Gras Parades
http://www.mardigrasparadeschedule.com/
http://www.mardigrasneworleans.com/mardi_gras_2011.html
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