A guide to Galveston's Mardi Gras traditions

By Melanie Nonmacher

Bienvenue, Galvestonians and visiting friends! Mardi Gras in Galveston, a treasured tradition that spans over a century, is a celebration that truly brings our island city to life. A spectacular blend of vibrant, larger-than-life parades, enthusiastic revelries, and the enchanting echo of jazz and zydeco music filling the air, Mardi Gras in Galveston is an occasion not to be missed. As the third largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, our beloved island has its unique way of celebrating this festival that makes it a stand-out in the crowd.

Our Mardi Gras festivities kick-off with the traditional Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Parade, a lively procession that travels down Seawall Boulevard and into the heart of Galveston. The Krewe, a group of dedicated locals, have been heralding the start of Mardi Gras for over three decades. With a joyful mix of marching bands, decked out floats, and costumed participants, this lively parade paints the town with shades of purple, green, and gold – the traditional Mardi Gras colors representing justice, faith, and power respectively.

One must-see event during Galveston's Mardi Gras season is the colorful Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade. A tradition that dates back to the 1870s, when Mardi Gras was first celebrated on the island, the parade is a grand spectacle of illuminated floats, high-stepping marching bands, and costumed dancers. It's a dazzling show that lights up Galveston's Historic Downtown Strand District, providing a delightful spectacle for all ages.

No Mardi Gras celebration would be complete without elegant balls, and Galveston does not disappoint. The island plays host to several Mardi Gras balls, each with its own distinct flavor. The Momus Coronation Ball, a black-tie event, is the pinnacle of high society celebrations, while the San Luis Salute offers an extravagant gala featuring renowned entertainers. These balls, with their beautiful gowns, dapper tuxedos, and intoxicating music, transport attendees into a world of elegance and grandeur.

And let's not forget the succulent Mardi Gras food! From indulgent King Cakes, a sweet treat filled with cream cheese and cinnamon and topped with colorful icing, to spicy gumbo and freshly shucked oysters from the Gulf, the Mardi Gras season is a foodie's paradise. Local restaurants and food stalls come alive with these and other delicacies, ensuring that Mardi Gras is not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the palate.

In Galveston, the Mardi Gras celebration is more than just a string of parties and parades. It's a time when our community comes together to celebrate our island's rich history and vibrant culture. It's a time when we open our doors to visitors, inviting them to join in our traditions and soak in the warmth of our hospitality. Whether you're a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, Mardi Gras in Galveston is an experience that will create memories to treasure for a lifetime. So, don your masks, grab your beads, and let's laissez les bon temps rouler – let the good times roll!

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