A Road Scholar Program by Dennis Stroughmatt

Mardi Gras is not only a day of celebration and feasting amongst the Illinois French, but also marks the end of the season known as "Carnival." Usually associated with New Orleans and the state of Louisiana, this event is also a well known and cherished cultural treasure that has been practiced by Creoles in the Illinois country of "Upper Louisiana" for over three centuries. This exciting presentation will discuss the western European and Celtic nature of Mardi Gras, how it relates to other celebrations throughout the year, the Illinois French Creole songs performed, and the festivals still held in the Midwest.