Mardi Gras falls on Tuesday, February 9th. We know what you’re thinking, Tuesday of all days, right? Since we all can’t jet set to New Orleans for the real deal, we suggest trying to make it feel just as real by throwing your very own masquerade party. Now before you go running, we want to share a few ideas that will ensure a fun and stress-free party for you and your loved ones.
Who says parents can’t have fun?
Between work and family, the last thing you want to do is plan a party mid-week on a school night. Especially knowing babysitting can cost an arm and leg these days. So why not get the chance to celebrate the parent way. Call up your closest friends and family, invite your children’s classmates and celebrate Mardi Gras, New Orleans’s style. The party doesn’t have to be extravagant, just an impromptu celebration that will leave all other Tuesdays ashamed of all the fun you will be having. A simple drive to your grocery/dollar store or even a click of a mouse via Amazon will make all the difference. Gather up a few supplies that will make your party shine. Don’t forget the décor!
King Cake anyone?
Now what is a party without some food? The best way to commemorate Mardi Gras is by chowing down on delightful foods. Since Mardi Gras is on a Tuesday (Fat Tuesday), suggest to your guests a potluck type showdown. Everyone bring his or her own favorite dish that represents New Orleans and its Cajun flare; Gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, king cake, beignets and more. A potluck will make set-up and clean up much more easier. Additionally, you might want to have a wine bar set-up for the in-between or after meals. After all, you don’t want to go too crazy on a Tuesday night.
Activities for you and your kiddos!
You are probably thinking, “How am I going to entertain all these children?” No worries! There are hundreds of activities for children to do on this great festive day. Since you’ll be throwing your very own masquerade party, you can either suggest your friends bring their own masks or have a station set up for your guests to make their own. DIY masks are a great way to kill time and keep those littles entertained. We have found the most affordable ones to be constructed from paper plates. You can also have the children paint their very own noodle beads with the Mardi Gras colors. The more creative you are, the more the children will participate.
If you decided to do a potluck, maybe have a guest bring some icing-free cupcakes. You can have the kids decorate the cupcakes in the Mardi Gras flare. Going along with NOLA tradition, you can have the children also make crowns and scepters. They can be dubbed the King and Queens of Mardi Gras.
Additionally, if the weather permits it and you have enough to splurge, rent a bounce house for the kiddos to play in outside. Who doesn’t love a child burning that energy before bedtime? We sure do!
We hope you and yours have a wonderful celebration, enriching the young one’s of the NOLA culture.
