Topsy Turvy: A Look at Carnival and Mardi Gras

The worldwide traditions of Mardi Gras and Carnival are celebrated at the next Saturdays at the Museum activity at Utah State University.

Provided by the Museum of Anthropology, activities take place Saturday, Feb. 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Mardi Gras is not only an epic celebration for the people of New Orleans, but an event that has rich cultural ties to many countries, the museum’s event organizers said.  They invite everyone for presentations about how different countries experience their own versions of Mardi Gras and Carnival through parades, dancing, music and more.

Museum visitors can make a mask and beaded necklace so everyone will “look fabulous for this exciting celebration.” Visitors are also invited to wear purple, green and gold and learn about what these colors represent.

“Almost everyone in the world has heard about either Mardi Gras or Carnival, but how many of us actually know the traditions of the celebration?” said Ally McDonough, a Saturdays program planner.

“Come dance away your winter blues while learning about this vibrant event,” said Erika Hansen, another program planner.

Community members and USU students alike can visit the museum during its operating hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Funding for the Saturday events is provided by a grant from the United States Institute of Museum and Library Services. More information about the IMLS is available online.

The USU Museum of Anthropology is on the USU campus in the south turret of the historic Old Main building, Room 252. Admission is free. For Saturday activities, free parking is available in the adjacent lot, south of the building.

For more information about museum events, call museum staff at (435) 797-7545 or visit the museum website.

The Museum of Anthropology is part of the Anthropology Program at USU in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Related links:

• USU Anthropology Program 
• USU Department of Sociology, Social Work and Anthropology
• USU College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Source: Museum of Anthropology

Contact: USU Museum of Anthropology, (435) 797-7545, anthro.museum@usu.edu