The Courir de Mardi Gras (Mardi Gras run) is Cajun Country’s traditional rural celebration dating back to the earliest days of settlement. With its roots firmly in the medieval tradition of ceremonial begging; bands of masked and costumed horseback riders roam the countryside “begging” for ingredients for their communal gumbo. “Le Capitaine” leads the riders from house to house where they dance and sing for donations such as chickens, sausage, rice and onions to be used in the gumbo. A country-style parade follows the run.
We were fortunate to be invited to a farm in Church Point to watch part of this year's “run.”
Guineas are often used instead of chickens. Here they are awaiting their fate.
Our group from Betty's RV was first to arrive--at 7:00 a.m.! We had our pick of spots and tried to get out of the wind.
Betty!
Others arriving . . . you can spot the tourists in "plain" clothes!
Tour buses arriving . . . most people were from elderhostels and many were French speaking.
Betty, Nancy, Nancy's friend, and Lori showing off their "leggin's." They have another name but I forget what it is!!
Betty showing off the sign Lori made for her so she'd get more beads!
Marvin laughing at Betty because she was cold! How mean is that?
The revelers are finally here at about 9:00 a.m.
Betty and Jocelyn and some of the crowd.
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