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What is Lundi Gras In New Orleans?

By
Real Estate Agent with Frank Rubi Real Estate LLC

Lundi Gras, French for "Fat Monday," is the day before Mardi Gras in New Orleans. It serves as the grand kickoff to the final day of Mardi Gras celebrations. The history of Lundi Gras is closely tied to the traditions of Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

The concept of Lundi Gras was popularized by the city's famous "Rex" Krewe in 1987. The Rex organization decided to revive the tradition of celebrating the arrival of the Rex King (the monarch of Mardi Gras) with a grand event on the day before Fat Tuesday. This event, known as Lundi Gras, has since become an integral part of the Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans.

Lundi Gras celebrations typically include a variety of events, such as parades, concerts, and riverfront festivities. One of the highlights of Lundi Gras is the arrival of the Rex King, who arrives in New Orleans by boat along the Mississippi River. The Rex King is greeted with much fanfare and ceremony, including a riverfront procession and the symbolic handing over of the city's keys by the mayor.

In addition to the arrival of the Rex King, Lundi Gras often features live music performances, food vendors, and fireworks displays. It's a day for locals and visitors alike to come together and enjoy the final moments of revelry before the solemnity of Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent.

Overall, Lundi Gras serves as a festive precursor to the main event of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, providing an additional day of excitement and celebration for all to enjoy.

Show All Comments Sort:
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Hello Joseph - ahh, another reason for a day to take off. Admittedly, I was unaware of Lundi Gras until reading your post.  Of course, I miss many celebrations.  Sleeping through them or ignoring them for countless other reasons are likely reasons.  If you are participating, may you enjoy the festivities.  

Feb 12, 2024 03:12 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Joseph. In my younger years I always wanted to go to Mardi Gras. That was before the crime wave in New Orleans became a big issue! These days, I don't give it a thought. But, thanks to you, now I know about Lundi Gras. Enjoy your day.

Feb 12, 2024 03:52 AM
Bill Salvatore - East Valley
Arizona Elite Properties - Chandler, AZ
Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net

Never been down there, but must re-consider.  Great information. Thanks for sharing and enjoy your week!

Bill Salvatore, Realtor- Arizona Elite Properties

Feb 12, 2024 04:32 AM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Thank you very much for this interesting post. 

Have an outstanding week.

Feb 12, 2024 10:13 AM
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good morning Joseph,

Glad that Bill Salvatore - East Valley re-blogged your post. I have not been in New Orleans for Mardi Gras but I understand it's a lot of fun!

Feb 12, 2024 11:22 AM
Ed Silva, 203-206-0754
Mapleridge Realty, CT 203-206-0754 - Waterbury, CT
Associate Real Estate Broker

I would expect that a lot of the partying started last Friday and will carry over to Fat Tuesday.

Feb 12, 2024 12:34 PM
John Pusa
Glendale, CA

Hello Joseph Lorenzo I was not aware of Lundi Gras, thank you for sharing the Lundi Gras in New Orleans.

Feb 12, 2024 06:03 PM
Joyce M. Marsh
Luxury Home Couture - Daytona Beach, FL
Joyce Marsh Homes & Design

It seems there is always something celebratory going on in New Orleans. It’s beenmany years since I’ve been there. The food was fantastic. 

Feb 12, 2024 08:17 PM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Home Stager/Redesign

Hi Joseph- I've never been to Mardi Gras and would love to have gone in my younger days. 

Feb 13, 2024 07:53 PM