When people hear “Mardi Gras,” they usually picture New Orleans. But one of the oldest and most influential Mardi Gras traditions in the U.S. traces back to Mobile, Alabama... starting in the early 1700s.
And here’s the part a lot of folks don’t realize... in many Southern communities, Mardi Gras isn’t just one day. It’s a season... with parades, food traditions, colors and family rituals that can stretch for weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday.
What “Mardi Gras” Actually Means
“Mardi Gras” is French for “Fat Tuesday”... the day before Ash Wednesday, which begins Lent. Historically, it was the last chance to enjoy rich foods (think... butter, eggs, milk and meat) before a season of fasting and reflection.
So yes… the snacks are part of the point.
Alabama’s Mardi Gras Origin Story
Mobile’s Mardi Gras history is tied to French colonial and Catholic traditions and is widely recognized as America’s oldest organized Carnival celebration.
Over time, Mobile developed signature traditions many people associate with Mardi Gras today... the parades, masked balls, floats and “throws” (small gifts tossed to the crowd).
If you’ve ever caught beads, a MoonPie or a throw cup... there’s a good chance you’ve experienced a tradition that Gulf Coast Alabama helped popularize.
The Colors Have Meanings
Those classic Mardi Gras colors aren’t random. A famous 1892 theme by the Rex organization popularized the symbolism...
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- Purple = Justice
- Green = Faith
- Gold = Power
That’s why you’ll see the same color trio on decorations, beads, frosting and even outfits across the South.
King Cake Season Is a Whole Thing
King cake isn’t just dessert... it’s a ritual.
Traditionally, king cake is linked to Epiphany/Twelfth Night and Carnival season and many versions include a small baby figurine. Whoever finds it is “king” for the day... and is often expected to bring the next cake or host the next gathering.
Fun (and modern) note... many bakeries now provide the baby on the side for safety/liability reasons.
How the South Celebrates (Beyond New Orleans)
Across the Gulf Coast... Alabama included... Mardi Gras can be a mix of...
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- Family-friendly parades (daytime, lots of kids, lots of candy)
- Krewes / mystic societies organizing floats and events
- Local traditions like throws, costumes, marching bands and themed nights
Even outside Mobile, Gulf Coast communities host parades and festivities that keep the season rolling.
How Madison Can Celebrate Mardi Gras (No Road Trip Required)
You don’t have to drive to the coast to enjoy the season. Here are easy ways to bring Mardi Gras home...
1) Do a King Cake Swap
Grab (or bake) a king cake and swap slices with neighbors or coworkers. Bonus points for purple/green/gold sprinkles.
2) Mardi Gras Dinner Night
Make it simple: gumbo, jambalaya, red beans & rice or even a “Cajun snack board.” Put on jazz, light a candle, call it a theme night.
3) Kid-Friendly “Throw” Bags
Make a little “throw bag” for kids... beads, stickers, toy coins, mini MoonPies. Then do a mini parade in the living room. (Works shockingly well.)
4) Color Day at Work or School
Purple/green/gold day plus a treat table = instant Mardi Gras energy with minimal planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mardi Gras just one day?
Mardi Gras Day is one day but Carnival season can last weeks leading up to it.
Why do people throw beads and toys?
In Gulf Coast traditions, parade riders toss “throws”.. small gifts... to the crowd as part of the celebration.
Did Mardi Gras really start in Alabama?
Mobile’s celebration is widely cited as America’s oldest organized Mardi Gras/Carnival tradition, with deep roots going back to the early 1700s.
Mardi Gras in the South isn’t just a party... it’s a blend of history, food, music, community and a little sparkle during the winter stretch. And for Madison? It’s a fun excuse to gather, cook something cozy, wear bright colors and let the good times roll... without waiting for a “special” weekend.
Sources
Wikipedia
History
Mardi Gras, New Orleans
