- Mask-wearing during Mardi Gras originated in the European celebration of Carnivale. During Carnivale, revelers wore masks to help them release their inhibitions during this time of excess and mischief since it's much easier to act on your impulses when no one knows who you are.
- Mardi Gras krewes were originally highly secretive and elite organizations. Masks were used on the floats during the parades in order to hide the identity of the members. Though most modern-day krewes are a little more laid back and not quite so secret, removing one's mask while on a float is still grounds for dismissal from the krewe in some of the older krewes, such as Zulu and Endymion.
- The reason why the identities of the krewe members were so secretive is because the basic idea of the Mardi Gras parades is rather politically and racially charged. Each krewe chooses a new theme each year, which is designed to poke fun at certain issues or events. In the early days of Mardi Gras, this often meant that the black community, such as servants, would attack the more pompous of the white community by exaggerating stereotypes or parodying their white masters. The anonymity that masks provided kept the black krewe members safe while keeping the atmosphere good-natured.
- Masks range from full-face to delicate wire encircling the eyes. They can be made of paper, plastic, leather, wire or latex.
- Some Mardi Gras masks are spectacular pieces of art, but if you choose to wear a mask you'll need to use some common sense. Only wear masks that do not block your vision. Try to avoid masks that have large feathers or other decoration that extend beyond your shoulders. Also, be aware that masks get hot, so make sure there is no risk of any chemicals or glitter being washed into your eyes by your own sweat.
