Let the Good Times Roll!!!

Mardi Gras, French for “Fat Tuesday” is the annual celebration that marks the last day before the start of the 40-day Christian fasting season from Ash Wednesday and Easter also known as Lent.  

Mobile has always claimed to be the first Mardi Gras, but I decided to delve into its history to verify this claim.

In 1702, Mobile was founded as a French settlement and served as the initial capital of Louisiana.  The inaugural celebration was known as Boeuf Gras (fattened ox) in 1703.  It originated as a French Catholic celebration to prepare for the commencement of Lent on Ash Wednesday.

1711—the first Parade rolled down Dauphin Street, featuring a colossal bull’s head on wheels, reminiscent of ancient carnival traditions in France. 

On the other hand, New Orleans was not founded until 1718 with the first float appearing in 1857 although celebrations began in the 1730’s. 

Therefore, Mobile’s claim as the “Mother of the Mystics” is legitimate.  Let the Good Times Roll. Mobile, along with the Eastern Shore, Gulf Shores, and Dauphin Island all participate in the revelry.  People love this time of the year.

Here is this year’s parade schedule for the Eastern Shore.

Laissez les bons temps rouler!!