hat defines a festival? Good food, colorful clothes, shiny decorations, and loads of merriment! Mardi Gras ticks all those boxes and more. If your kids aren’t familiar with the grandeur of “Fat Tuesday,” these crafts are the perfect way to introduce them to this incredible cultural celebration.
What is Mardi Gras?
The name is French for “Fat Tuesday.” Traditionally, it’s a day to enjoy rich, delicious foods (like the famous King Cake!) before the 40 days of fasting for Lent begin. Today, it’s a world-famous carnival known for massive parades, music, and “throws”—the beads and trinkets tossed from floats to the crowds!
The Meaning Behind the Colors
You’ll notice three main colors everywhere during Mardi Gras. Each one has a special meaning:
- Purple: Represents Justice
- Green: Represents Faith
- Gold: Represents Power
Fun Mardi Gras Activities for Families
Mardi Gras has always been a family affair. For generations, families in New Orleans have brought ladders to parades so kids can get a birds-eye view of the royalty and marching bands. You can bring that same excitement home with these creative projects!
1. DIY Masquerade Masks
The first thing that comes to mind when you hear “Mardi Gras” is a spectacular mask! Using templates from 100 Directions, kids can create their own paper masks. Don’t hold back—decorate them with plenty of purple, green, and gold glitter, feathers, and all the bling you can find!
2. Handprint King Cakes
Create a “paper version” of the famous dessert using construction paper and “icing” made from glitter glue. It’s a great way to talk about the tradition of the hidden baby figurine inside the cake!