Derived both from traditions of the Christian faith and pagan fertility festivals, Mardi Gras is a holiday celebration unlike any other. Although famously celebrated in places such as New Orleans and Mobile, the birthplace of the custom, Mardi Gras festivities now take place in virtually every major city in the United States – from parades to costume contests, to over-the-top food festivals, “Fat Tuesday” does not disappoint. In you are having a Mardi Gras party, you’ll need masks, beads, King Cake – and flowers! After all, you’ll need to cover your home with the traditional gold, purple and green, and there is no more beautiful way to do that than with flowers. Robertson’s Flowers is proud to be a part of all of Philadelphia’s best events and celebrations, and this is no exception.

Did You Know? Mardi Gras dates back to the early days of Christianity. As Rome tried to integrate the new faith with pagan tradition and ritual, they decided to have a massive party that culminated on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. During Lent, the faithful would fast and repent, so “Fat Tuesday” was created to eat all of the food in the house before the fast began. The tradition spread to France, where the name was translated “Mardi Gras”. In the early 1700’s, French settlers in the New Orleans area (although Louisiana was not yet U.S. territory) continued to celebrate the traditions of Mardi Gras that they brought from Europe. Early festivities included masquerade balls and lavish dinners. As time went on, groups began to parade through the streets in costumes, and the masks remained. Parades, floats, and marching bands became more and more spectacular, and secret societies, known as “krewes”, maintained a mystical and clandestine presence which remains today.

Only in Philadelphia (well, Manayunk): The Mummers Mardi Gras Parade is your chance to get up close and personal with some of the finest Mummers – The String Band Association! The daylong celebration will offer family-friendly activities such as face painting, photo booths, and much more! This is New Orleans pageantry unlike any other in Philadelphia. Takes place Saturday, February 18th, 11 a.m., Main Street Manayunk.

No party is complete without gorgeous floral designs from Robertson’s Flowers. No matter the occasion, we are your source for the most amazing decor in Philadelphia. Happy Mardi Gras!