Lake Charles, Louisiana, sometimes called the "Festival Capital" because of its many events that are hosted here and nearby, is conveniently located on I-10 between Houston and New Orleans. "Traditional Cajun Mardi Gras" dates further back in time than the New Orleans' style Mardi Gras. The Lake Charles Mardi Gras parade will be on Fat Tuesday, March 8, 2011.
Mardi Gras is always scheduled on "Fat Tuesday", the day before Ash Wednesday and 47 days before Easter (the 40 days and 7 Sundays of Lent). A "krewe" is a group of people who join together to celebrate Mardi Gras. Membership in most krewes is by invitation only. Krewe members work throughout the year preparing for their part in the overall celebration of Mardis Gras, via a parade float, ball, and/or other event during the pageantry. In 1979, several krewes formed the "Krewe of Krewes" with the purpose of promoting Mardi Gras for the Southwest Louisiana area. In 1985, Mardi Gras of Imperial Calcasieu was formed, further enhancing and enlarging the fabulous Mardi Gras celebration. The Mardi Gras of Imperial Calcasieu celebration begins with "Carnival" on Jan. 6, the twelveth night after Christmas, with the annual Twelfth Night Revelry, and continues though Fat Tuesday. The entire community plus others from all over come to sample Southwest Louisiana atmosphere, cajun food, music and merriment during this exciting season.
Lake Charles also is home to the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu showcasing the largest display of Mardi Gras costumes in Louisiana.