How Did Masks Come to Be Associated With Mardi Gras?
The wearing of masks during Mardi Gras began centuries ago when there were secret societies and a secret upper class. Members of these societies would wear elaborate masks to balls where they could stay anonymous. Both men and women would dress in their finest and could enjoy the freedom of anonymity. This tradition began to move from the ballrooms into the celebrations on the street, where it is still popular. Does this Spark an idea?
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Traditional Masks
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The traditional masks of Mardi Gras were attached to sticks on one side which the person would hold over her face. The masks could be any color, but green, symbolizing faith; purple, symbolizing justice; and gold, symbolizing power, are the traditional colors of Mardi Gras and of Mardi Gras masks.
Mask Materials
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Mardi Gras masks are made from a variety of materials. They can still be attached to a stick, but can also be worn with an elastic band around the head, leaving both hands free. Most masks have a cardboard base and are then decorated by attaching feathers, sequins, glitter or beads. There is really no limit as to the kind of materials that can be put on a mask.
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When to Wear Masks
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Masks can be worn during any Mardi Gras-related celebration, however the tradition is to wear a mask during the celebrations of Fat Tuesday, including the famous Bourbon Street Mardi Gras parade. Mardi Gras is French for, "Fat Tuesday" and signifies the start of Lent. Fat Tuesday is always 46 days before Easter.
Why Wear a Mask
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It is said that those wearing a mask in New Orleans on Fat Tuesday will get more Mardi Gras trinkets thrown to them. The more elaborate and unique the mask, the more trinkets. Wearing a mask also allows you to participate fully in the Mardi Gras tradition and experience what it feels like to party anonymously.
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