The History of Mardi Gras: "Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler!"

February 10, 2024 9:05am

The Mardi Gras season is in full swing in New Orleans, and this February 13th is "Fat Tuesday." It's the last day of revelry and merriment before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday.

When most people outside New Orleans think of Mardi Gras, they think of drunken debauchery and excess on Bourbon Street. But that's a very small part of the Mardi Gras story. On today's radio program, I sat down with Barry Kern, the CEO and President of Mardi Gras World on the bank of the Mississippi River in New Orleans. We discussed the history and traditions of this centuries-old carnival that, despite the stereotypes, is actually a very family friendly celebration. While you may think of Mardi Gras as a day with a big parade, there's a lot more to it than that. Listen to today's program to learn what it is.

My discussion with Barry Kern aired today on WPNN Radio and is now archived online as a podcast at www.TheMikeBatesShow.com/podcasts/240210. "Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler!"