Insider's Guide to the best Mardi Gras Balls, Parades & Parties, by a New Orleans local. Includes Krewe of Muses parade, Rex & Zulu parades, Mardi Gras Indian parade & more.

Mardi Gras balls were exclusive events closed off from most people outside of New Orleans society until this krewe revolutionized the event. In 1949, Edward Brennan Sr. created the krewe, a carnival Ball open to tourists.

Mardi Gras Balls Elegant balls crown new royalty during Carnival. Some of the most glittering spectacles of Mardi Gras happen behind closed doors at grand balls thrown by krewes for their members and lucky guests.

With Rex, Zulu, doubloons, flambeaus, and king cake, Mardi Gras may sound confusing, but we’ve created the ultimate guide to help you understand all things Mardi Gras. Book your trip and head on down to New Orleans for the greatest and most historic celebration on earth.

High-society Carnival balls are exclusive, invitation-only affairs that involve traditional rituals and intricate codes of behavior that hark back Europe’s ancien régime.

Mardi Gras is French for Fat Tuesday, the season is known as Carnival and begins on 12th Night, January 6th, and extends until midnight before Ash Wednesday. Club, or Krewe, balls start soon after, though most are extremely private, with their Kings and Queens coming from wealthy old families and their courts consisting of the season's debutantes.

Mar 30, 2024 · Mardi Gras balls in New Orleans have a rich and vibrant history that dates back to the early 19th century. These secretive masquerade events have become an integral part of the city’s carnival celebrations and are organized by various social clubs known as “krewes.”

New Orleans holds a rich history of Mardi Gras celebrations. Click here to learn about past and present Mardi Gras balls, parades, traditions and events.