Dive into Mardi Gras Magic
The Historic New Orleans Collection is inviting everyone who is interested in learning about the history of our colorful, sparkly, and now plastic and blinking Mardi Gras souvenirs with a series of free pop-up talks at their French Quarter museum.
Starting on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, and running until February 26, the on the spot discussion, titled "Mardi Gras Throws: It's the Gettin' Not the Havin'!", will showcase the evolution of Carnival season throws and the unintended consequences plastic beads have brought to the environment, as well as ways to reduce those issues. Topics may range from the origins of Mardi Gras throws, krewe influence, evolution of materials thrown, and the symbolism of the trinkets the Crescent City knows and loves today.
About the HNOC
For years, the The Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC) has leveraged its platform to preserve the history of New Orleans' culture, as well as that of the Gulf South. The HNOC was founded in 1966 by General L. Kemper Williams and Mrs. Leila Moore Williams. It is a museum, research center, and publisher that focuses on the heritage of New Orleans and the Southern region. The HNOC contains impressive amounts of books, periodicals, articles, and exhibitions that focus on our rich history.
More Info
The pop-up discussion will be held at The Historic New Orleans Collection's Tricentennial Wing, first floor, on 520 Royal St. "Mardi Gras Throws: It's the Gettin' Not the Havin'!" will be available for viewing from January 8 to February 26, 2025. You can view it on Wednesday and Saturday from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. General admission is free and guests are welcome to explore the museum's other exhibits after the pop-up talk. The HNOC is closed on Mondays. For groups of 10 or more, please contact tours@hnoc.org.
If you are into museums, here's a list of more museums to check out around New Orleans.