Beads are one of the most recognizable symbols of Carnival. Walk along a parade route and you'll see them flying from floats, hanging from balconies and stacked around spectators' necks in every color imaginable.
But why do people wear beads at Mardi Gras? The tradition is closely connected to Mardi Gras parades and the custom of "throws"—items given or tossed from float riders to the crowds below.
Where Did the Mardi Gras Bead Tradition Come From?
The tradition of throwing small trinkets to Mardi Gras crowds to encourage excitement developed during New Orleans Carnival celebrations in the late 19th century. Over time, beads became one of the most popular and recognizable parade throws.
Today, float riders purchase beads and other throws to distribute to spectators along the parade route.
Catch a strand and the easiest place to put it is around your neck. Catch another, add that one too. By the end of a parade, spectators can be wearing dozens of strands at once.
That accumulation of beads has become part of the Mardi Gras experience itself.
What Are Mardi Gras Throws?
Throws are items distributed from floats during Mardi Gras parades. Beads may be the most famous, but riders also toss items such as:
- Cup
- Doubloons
- Toys
- Stuffed animals
- Light-up items
- Krewe-themed collectibles
- Special signature throws
Part of the excitement is interacting with riders and trying to catch something as each float passes. You may even hear spectators calling the traditional phrase:
"Throw me something, Mister!"
Why Are Mardi Gras Beads Purple, Green & Gold?
You'll see Mardi Gras beads in almost every color, but purple, green and gold remain the most traditional.
The official Mardi Gras colors are traditionally associated with three meanings: Purple represents justice. Green represents faith. Gold represents power.
Wearing beads in all three colors is one of the simplest ways to add the traditional Carnival palette to an outfit.
Do You Have to Earn Mardi Gras Beads?
No—and this is one Mardi Gras misconception worth clearing up.
At parades, you generally get beads by catching them when float riders throw them into the crowd. You do not need to flash anyone or do anything inappropriate to receive Mardi Gras beads. Wave, cheer, make eye contact with riders and enjoy the parade. That's usually all it takes.
For families attending Mardi Gras, catching beads and other throws is often one of the highlights for kids.
Are Mardi Gras Beads Only for Parades?
Not anymore.
Beads have become a symbol of Mardi Gras far beyond the parade route. They're commonly used for Mardi Gras parties, costumes, decorating, tablescapes and DIY projects.
You can layer them into centerpieces, drape them around serving areas or use old strands to create wreaths and other Carnival decorations.
If you catch more than you want to keep, consider looking for a local bead recycling or donation program rather than simply throwing them away.
How to Style Mardi Gras Beads
Mardi Gras beads are already colorful, so you don't need an equally busy outfit underneath them.
Try layering purple, green and gold beads over a solid top, sweatshirt or jacket, or coordinate your beads with one statement Carnival accessory.
A conductor hat, festive scarf, beanie, sequin piece, rhinestone accessory or colorful jacket can make a simple parade outfit feel much more intentional.
At Mardi Gras Creations, you'll find Mardi Gras apparel and accessories designed to pair naturally with the beads you'll collect along the route, from festive hats and socks to statement clothing, outerwear and accessories.
More Than a Mardi Gras Accessory
Mardi Gras beads aren't simply something people put on for a party. They're connected to the experience of standing along a parade route, interacting with riders and seeing what you can catch as each float passes.
Wear one strand or pile them on until you need a separate bag to carry the rest.
Either way, those colorful beads are a little piece of Carnival tradition you get to take home with you.
Mardi Gras Beads FAQs
Why are beads thrown during Mardi Gras?
Beads are part of the Mardi Gras tradition of parade throws and are used to excite parade goers. Float riders distribute beads and other items to spectators, creating interaction between the parade and the crowd.
Do you have to flash to get beads at Mardi Gras?
No. This is a popular misconception about Mardi Gras. Along traditional parade routes, spectators simply wave, cheer and try to catch beads and other throws from float riders.
What should you do with Mardi Gras beads after Carnival?
Keep your favorites as souvenirs, reuse them for decorations and DIY projects or look for local organizations that collect and recycle Mardi Gras beads.
