Carnival and Mardi Gras

Venetian Origins

The Venice Carnival, one of the oldest and most renowned, began in 1162 after a military victory by the Republic of Venice. It became famous for its elaborate costumes and masks, with the first documentation of mask-wearing dating back to the 13th century. Gary Arndt explains that the tradition of throwing ovi odoriferae, or scented eggs, was eventually banned due to misuse 1.

The Venice carnival was actually banned in 1797, and there were only smaller private celebrations after that.

--- Gary Arndt

Revived in 1979 to attract tourists, the carnival now draws over 3 million visitors annually, showcasing the artistry of mask-making and costume design 1.

   

Trinidad's Vibrance

Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival is a vibrant blend of African and European traditions, originating in the late 18th century with French plantation owners' masked balls. Gary Arndt notes that the slaves, excluded from these events, created their own festival, known as cane boule, which evolved into a unique cultural celebration after emancipation in 1834 1.

Perhaps the most notable thing which came out of the Trinidad carnival celebrations was calypso music.

--- Gary Arndt

The introduction of steel drums, now a national symbol, highlights the festival's innovative spirit, with preparations for the next carnival starting months in advance 2.

   

Brazil's Grandeur

Brazil's Carnival, particularly in Rio de Janeiro, is the largest in the world, celebrated across all 26 states with street fairs, costumes, and competitions. Gary Arndt describes the samba schools, which are local clubs that spend the entire year preparing for the parade, as a highlight of the festivities 2.

The parade takes place at a place called the Sombodrome, which is a specially built stadium just for the carnival parade.

--- Gary Arndt

The Sombodrome, seating 90,000 people, hosts the elaborate parades that are televised nationwide, showcasing the creativity and dedication of the samba schools 2.

   

Louisiana's Festivities

Louisiana's Mardi Gras, particularly in New Orleans, is a historic celebration dating back to 1699, with community events documented as early as 1730. Gary Arndt highlights the formation of crews in 1856, akin to Brazil's samba schools, which prepare floats for the parades 3.

Shrove Tuesday is a day to be remembered by strangers in New Orleans, for that is the day for fun, frolic and comic masquerading.

--- James Creasy

In rural Louisiana, the Cajun Mardi Gras features unique traditions like the career de Mardi Gras, where participants chase chickens for a communal gumbo, showcasing the region's distinct cultural flavor 3.