Mardi Gras is right around the corner, a time of festivity deeply rooted in its traditions, and we have some fun ideas for your celebrations.

Translated “fat Tuesday,” Mardi Gras originates from the final days of feasting before the Christian season of Lent – a period of penance and fasting before the celebration of Easter.

Many of its customs, especially in places like New Orleans and Venice, Italy, draw from centuries-old European traditions and are celebrated for weeks beforehand.

Here are five Mardi Gras traditions you can try this year!

1. Cook a Fat Tuesday feast

• Lasagna Al Ragu (classic Italian pre-Lent dish)
• Jambalaya, gumbo, or shrimp po’boys (New Orleans flavors)

2. Indulge in classic Mardi Gras sweets

• Pancakes – a Shrove Tuesday tradition to clear out indulgent ingredients before Lent 
• King Cake – a vibrant ring-shaped cake frosted in Mardi Gras colors, with a plastic baby figurine hidden inside (whoever finds it is crowned “king” and brings the cake to the next party).
• Paczki – fluffy Polish donuts with rich fillings
• Beignets – a French-inspired New Orleans delight

3. Create DIY masks

A key part of Mardi Gras and Venetian traditions, masks add an element of mystery and fun. Making your own is a great way to get creative. Start with a plain mask base, which can be found at craft stores or made from sturdy paper or cardstock. 

Decorate with paint, glitter, feathers, lace, and sequins in traditional Mardi Gras colors: purple (justice), green (faith), and gold (power). Or choose Carnivale’s signature colors like black, gold, red, or green. Add ribbons or elastic for a secure fit.

4. Watch a virtual parade or bring it inside

If you can’t make it to New Orleans, many cities host local parades or events with floats, music, and beads galore.

You can also stream a virtual parade online to experience the excitement from home. Join in the carnival ambiance by dressing up in festive colors and decorating your home or dining table with colorful streamers. Get the whole family involved in tossing beads and dancing to Mardi Gras music from classic New Orleans jazz to brass band tunes. 

5. Host a Venetian Carnivale-inspired masquerade

Bring some mystery and elegance to your Mardi Gras festivities by throwing your own Venetian Masquerade party. This tradition, rooted in Italy’s Carnevale, features elaborate masks, music, dancing, and indulgent feasts.

Transform your home into a Venetian palace by decorating with rich colors like gold, deep red, and navy blue, and create a warm, inviting glow with candles, fairy lights, draped fabrics, and a sprinkle of feathers or pearls.

Set up a DIY mask-making station and encourage guests to come dressed in formal or semi-formal attire. Feast on Carnivale flavors like savory Lasagne al Ragu and sweet Frittelle Di Carnevale. Enhance the ambiance with a playlist featuring Venetian Baroque music and smooth Italian jazz. Feast, dance, and end the night with a prosecco toast and small prizes for best-dressed and best mask.