A Brief History of Mardi Gras

Tribal Traditions
One of New Orleans' more unique sights is that of two Mardi Gras Indian tribes facing off on a street corner. The Indians are said to be a way for African Americans to pay tribute to Native Americans who helped their slave ancestors escape their masters. New Orleans is home to dozens of Mardi Gras Indian tribes, who each have their own special chain of command and who spend an entire year working on their elaborate feathered and beaded costumes, each of which is worn only once during Mardi Gras season. When two tribes encounter each other, a ritualized, theatrical performance full of chanting, singing, dancing, and bluster ensues.

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