Description: Since 1699, when Pierre LeMoyne, Sieur d’Iberville celebrated his arrival at the mouth of the Mississippi River on Shrove Tuesday, Mardi Gras has been integrally linked to Louisiana’s cultural heritage. And no American city celebrates the event more elaborately than New Orleans! The story of this extraordinary tradition is dynamically told in a high-tech, interactive, permanent exhibition at the Presbytere, a building that was constructed beginning in 1791 as a home for Capuchin monks. Along with the Cabildo, it flanks the elegant St. Louis Cathedral. "Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana" traces five major themes of the celebration: History, Masking, Parades, Balls, and the Courir du Mardi Gras. Based on meticulous research, the exhibition traces Mardi Gras from its ancient origins to the 19th century emergence of New Orleans’ parades and balls to the present-day, statewide celebration that attracts millions each year. The exhibition also features three focus galleries filled with dazzling Mardi Gras memorabilia. Here the visitor finds handmade gowns worn by Kings and Queens of some of this city’s krewes, magnificent crowns and scepters that donned Mardi Gras royalty and antique invitations to the bal masques. There are exhibits that delight and entertain as well, along with clever displays that underscore the festival’s whimsical appeal. Children of all ages can experience the excitement of watching a parade or the exhilaration of riding a float by climbing aboard a huge, interactive display created by Blaine Kern, New Orleans' most famous float maker. Visitors will learn about the Mardi Gras celebrations in the state’s rural areas, with rites that resemble those associated with village festivals of 12th-century Europe. The Museum's unique gift shop is worth a visit! Here the visitor can purchase a treasure trove of Mardi Gras memorabilia—perfect souvenirs for those back home. “Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana” is fun and educational for the whole family. The Presbytere is open Tuesday – Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is part of the Louisiana State Museum system, which also includes the Cabildo, the Old U.S. Mint, The 1850 House, and Madame John’s Legacy. Admission to the Cabildo/Arsenal, Presbytere and Old U.S. Mint is $5 for adults and $4 for senior citizens, students, and active military. Admission to Madame John’s Legacy and The 1850 House is $3 for adults and $2 for senior citizens, students and active military. Children under 12 are admitted free to all sites. School groups are free, but reservations are required. Combination tickets for two or more sites receive a 20% discount, and group discounts are also available. All properties in the Louisiana State Museum system are available for rental for meetings, receptions and private events, except The 1850 House. Each Museum is authentic and unique, and provides an unforgettable venue. For more information, call 1 (800) 568-6968 or visit lsm.crt.state.la.us. |
