Mardi Gras is a festive celebration that's also known as Fat Tuesday. This holiday takes place many countries around the world, but the celebrations in New Orleans, Louisiana are the most well-known.

Mardi Gras is a celebration of life and is a time to let loose and have fun before the restrictions of Lent. The vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, and festive music all reflect the exuberance and energy of the festival. In many ways, Mardi Gras is a celebration of community and togetherness, as people come together to enjoy the festivities and to revel in the joy of the moment.

Since Mardi Gras is all about indulgence and community you can't forget the most important part - delicious food! When planning your Mardi Gras Feast make sure you include these staples.

Traditional Mardi Gras Dishes

Main Dishes

• Jambalaya: A flavorful mixture of rice, meats (such as sausage, chicken, and shrimp), vegetables, and spices. It is a staple dish of Louisiana cuisine and is a must-have for any Mardi Gras celebration.
• Gumbo: A thick stew that typically includes seafood, sausage, vegetables, and a roux made of flour and oil. It is another popular dish in Louisiana and is often served over rice.
• Red Beans and Rice: A classic Creole dish made with red beans, andouille sausage, onions, celery, and spices. It is a comfort food that is perfect for a Mardi Gras feast.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: A staple of Southern cuisine, cornbread is a must-have for any Mardi Gras celebration. It can be served as a side dish or as a base for dishes like jambalaya or gumbo.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing side dish made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and vinegar. It provides a cool, crisp contrast to the spicier main dishes.
• Potato Salad: A classic side dish made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and a variety of other ingredients such as eggs, pickles, and mustard.

Desserts

• King Cake: A round, braided cake that is decorated with frosting and sprinkles in the colors of Mardi Gras (purple, green, and gold). It is traditionally served during the Mardi Gras season and often contains a small plastic baby, which is said to bring good luck to whoever finds it in their slice.
• Beignets: A French-style doughnut that is deep-fried and dusted with powdered sugar. It is a staple dessert in New Orleans and is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a big Mardi Gras feast.

Beverages

• Hurricane Cocktail: A sweet and fruity cocktail made with rum, passion fruit syrup, and lime juice. It is named after the Hurricane Lamp, which was used to serve drinks during the days of prohibition.
• Mint Julep: A classic Southern cocktail made with mint, sugar, and bourbon. It is perfect for sipping on during a warm Mardi Gras celebration.

Mardi Gras is a time of indulgence, celebration, and joy. From the King Cake, to the parades, to the music and dance, there are countless traditions that make this season truly special. So whether you’re participating in the festivities or just observing from the sidelines, we hope that you will enjoy this magical day and all that it has to offer.