MARDI GRAS INDIANS

Super Sunday - St. Joseph's Day

Aside from Mardi Gras day, the most significant day for the Mardi Gras Indians is St. Joseph's Day, March 19th. Around sundown on this day, the Mardi Gras Indians once again dress in their feathers and suits and take to the streets to meet other "gangs." Also, the Mardi Gras Indian Council and Tambourine and Fan organization put on an annual "Super Sunday" parade on the Sunday closest to St. Joseph's Day.

Nobody is completely certain when the tradition of Mardi Gras Indians "masking" on St. Joseph's night began. However, there have been reports of Indians on St. Joseph's night dating back to before World War I. The custom seems to have come about simply because it was a good opportunity. With all of the Catholic Italians celebrating this holiday in the streets, the Indians were able to blend in and celebrate as well.

Before 1969, the Indians celebrated by coming out at night to meet and greet other "gangs." In 1969, the first parade was created and rolled through town at night. In 1970, it was switched to a day parade on Sunday afternoon, and has continued like that to this day. The parade usually begins around noon at Bayou St. John and Orleans Avenue. However, it has no exact route.

The daytime parades make the Indians accessible to the general public and allow visitors and locals alike to admire their amazing costumes, crowns, and accessories. If time permits, make it a point to take part in this very unique New Orleans tradition.