Beautiful melodies from saxophones arise as the sun smiles down upon the streets. The blues and soul of the South are a glorious sound. Jazz is a cultural experience in itself. Delicacies filling the air all around.
In this Legends Among Us we are journeying into the heart of one of America's greatest celebrations, Mardi Gras. The people that shaped the Big Easy to what it is day. Come on, let's start this adventure diving into the past!
Vampires, witches, voodoo, and pirates have been highly televised the past few years by shows such as The Originals and American Horror Story. They are being pulled from real-life legends of the streets of NOLA (New Orleans). It is considered to be one of the most haunted cities in the United States. Especially, for vampires.
Anne Rice can take some of the credit, being New Orleans born. Perhaps she found inspiration there for her books? She's even arrived to book signings being pulled by a horse-drawn hearse! New Orleans also has, supposedly, the only vampire store in the country. Boutique du Vampyre, which opened its doors for business in 2003. Not sure it's a store I'd visit. Definitely sounds interesting as they sell many vampire-type items.
Comte de St. Germain, John and Wayne Carter, and the Urseline Convent are some of the most infamous vampires in this city of richly, dark history.
Another infamous character from the Big Easy is Madame LaLaurie. If you watched American Horror Story: Coven, I'm sure you know some of her gruesome tale. The horrors were only revealed due to a kitchen fire in the LaLaurie mansion. Ghost tales say Delphine still haunts the mansion to this day.
Now, one of the most legendary people to come forth. The Queen of Voodoo, Marie Laveau. She had her own beauty parlor, and her clientele were the wealthier families of New Orleans. Her family life? She did have children. Her marriage certificate to her first husband resides in St. Louis Cathedral.
Living to the old age of 79 (September 10, 1801 - June 15, 1881) she was buried at Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1. Unfortunately, the tomb was vandalized in 2013. You must be occupied by a tour guide now to visit her tomb due to a rise in cases of vandalism to the tombs. Legend has it if you write an X on the tomb, spin thrice, knock on the tomb, and shout out your wish, she might grant it. If she does, you must circle your X and leave an offering of gratitude to the Voodoo Queen. There have been sightings of her in the cemetery.
As far as historical places to visit, I recommend the St. Louis Cathedral. The architecture is amazing. Built in 1718 before being mostly destroyed in 1788 by a fire. The cathedral was then rebuilt in the 1800's.
One of the oldest fine arts museums resides in New Orleans. Built in 1911, rather young compared to most of the city, Gallier Hall is a staple for Mardi Gras. The Mayor of New Orleans and the King of Rex hold a toast on the steps of this building on Mardi Gras day. It's one of the major events for the Grand Carnival. It was City Hall until sometime in the 1950's.
Speaking of Mardi Gras, do you know some of its history? It is a celebration period before Lent. The official date this year is March 5th. It varies every year just like Easter does. In the UK, it is similar to Shrove Tuesday. It dates back to old Roman rituals and paganism in honor of their agricultural god, Saturn. In truth, it is a part of many cultures as the celebration begins and lasts until the day before Ash Wednesday. Many people use the carnival as a drinking holiday now, allowing that to be what they give up for Lent. It is a string of different Krewe's holding numerous parades in celebration. It also varies by the city and country it is held in. Brazil's Carnival, is one of the most world-renowned.
Ever wonder what the colors for Mardi Gras mean? Purple represents justice green represents faith, and gold represents power. There's a meaning for everything in Mardi Gras.
No matter how you celebrate it or what you believe in, Mardi Gras lives in all of us in one form or another. New Orleans has an air of mystery and excitement that everyone should experience at least once in their life. I hope the spirit of it may excite you all as it does me. Oh, and the King Cakes of New Orleans are scrumptious. The stuffed ones are the best!
This is Salazia saying, "Laissez les bons temps rouler." Or better known as, Let the good times roll! And Happy Carnival Season!!! Enjoy Snakelings!