Party like a king
With a name meaning “king,” this is one of the oldest Mardi Gras krewes, known for public service
What is the Krewe of Rex? It was established in 1872 and set Mardi Gras colors and many other traditions still followed today.
Made from this material, trumpets are often heard leading Mardi Gras parades in the city
What is brass? Trumpets are part of the signature sound of jazz music.
This small token is baked inside traditional king cakes.
What is a baby figurine? Whoever gets the slice with the baby wins good luck and must host the next party
This symbol is typically found atop a king cake.
What is a crown? The symbol is a nod to Epiphany traditions and celebrates the three kings who visited the baby Jesus.
This NOLA musical legend was known by the nickname “Satchmo.”
Who is Louis Armstrong? The nickname was short for “Satchel Mouth” and celebrated his unique skill and style in trumpeting
These are deep-fried, donut-like treats served with a
powdered sugar dusting, a NOLA favorite.
What are beignets? They were popularized by the Café du Monde, though many New Orleans eateries now serve the treat.
This name is given to the Monday before Mardi Gras.
What is Lundi Gras? “Fat Monday” is celebrated with parades and parties leading up to the big celebration on Mardi Gras
This lively and unique Louisiana music genre blends French, Creole, and blues and features instruments like the washboard and accordion
What is zydeco? The name comes from a French expression for hard times, les haricots ne sont pas salés (“the beans aren’t salty”)
This Creole dish is a spicy treat made with stewed sausage, chicken, or shrimp cooked with rice
What is jambalaya? With French, Spanish, and African influences, the dish represents New Orleans’ multicultural heritage.
They founded the Krewe of Tucks, noted for their humorous parade floats and silly trinkets
Who are college students? This krewe is known for giving out toilet-themed trinkets, among other zany traditions
A local festival each spring celebrates this genre of music
What is jazz? Jazz Fest, or the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, attracts fans and musicians from around the globe.
This New Orleans seafood stew is cooked with a thick roux base, okra, or filé powder as a thickener
What is gumbo? Although similar to jambalaya, gumbo is cooked separately from the rice and relies on other thickening agents.
King cakes originated around the 12th century in this country.
What is France? The cakes were baked in a circle to honor the route taken by the three kings.
These marching groups are often seen (and heard) accompanying floats and parades during Mardi Gras.
What are brass bands? Uniquely, many of these bands improvise the tunes they play as they are marching, lending a festive tone to their music
These sandwiches, often featuring fried shrimp and served on long loaves of French bread, are a New Orleans staple
What are po’ boys? The origins are sometimes debated, but they are believed to have originated during a streetcar strike