The Starlighters Dance Club Semi-Formal 3/8/2026

Did You Know? - Mardi Gras was brought to the United States by French explorers who settled in the region that is now Louisiana. The first Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans was held in 1699, and the tradition has continued to this day, with elaborate parades, costume balls, and other festivities.

Did You Know? - "Sachmo" was Louis Armstrong's nickname, and it comes from "Satchelmouth"—a joking reference to his wide mouth (and the way it looked when he played).

The most common story is that it was coined in the early 1920s when Armstrong was in Chicago, often credited to bandleader/mentor King Oliver (or people around that scene). Over time, "Satchelmouth" got shortened in speech to "Satchmo."

Did You Know? - King cake trivia (especially the New Orleans/Mardi Gras kind):

1. What it is: A sweet, ring-shaped pastry associated with Epiphany and Carnival season.
2. Season dates (New Orleans): Sold from Jan 6 (Twelfth Night/Epiphany) through Mardi Gras day.
3. Why it's called "King" cake: Tied to the Three Kings/Wise Men visiting the Christ child on Epiphany.
4. The colors mean something: Purple = justice, green = faith, gold = power (Mardi Gras colors).
5. The hidden baby: A small plastic baby (formerly a bean/coin) is baked inside. Tradition says whoever finds it hosts/buys the next king cake (or throws the next party).
6. Safety note: Many bakeries now tuck the baby in after baking (or provide it separately) to avoid choking/tooth hazards and oven issues.
7. Classic filling: Traditionally cinnamon; modern versions include cream cheese, praline, fruit, chocolate, etc.
8. Not the same as European king cakes: In France there's the galette des rois (puff pastry with almond frangipane) and in Spain/Latin America roscón de reyes—related in theme, different in style.
9. New Orleans twist: The Mardi Gras color sugar topping is a local hallmark; many other regions don't use that look.
10. Ring shape: Often said to symbolize a crown (or unity/continuity of the season).
11. Bakeries get competitive: In Louisiana it's a big deal—some shops have cult followings and ship nationwide.
12. Fun etiquette: If you cut it, it's customary to warn everyone about the baby before serving.

Did You Know? - A krewe (pronounced "KROO") is an organization or club that puts on Mardi Gras events, especially parades and balls, most famously in and around New Orleans. Krewes typically: •

Plan and fund a parade (floats, themes, costumes, throws like beads)

Hold Mardi Gras balls or parties

Have members who ride on floats or participate in events

Often follow a theme (mythology, humor, a neighborhood identity, etc.)

Did You Know? - When Christianity spread throughout Europe, the pagan celebrations were often incorporated into the Christian calendar. Mardi Gras, which is French for "Fat Tuesday," is celebrated on the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Christian season of Lent.

Did You Know? - Rex is the king of the carnival in New Orleans, and his krewe is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the city. According to legend, Rex was inspired by a visit from the Russian Grand Duke Alexis in 1872, and his krewe has been an integral part of Mardi Gras celebrations ever since.

Did You Know? - Mardi Gras has its roots in ancient pagan celebrations that honored the coming of spring and fertility. These festivals often involved feasting, drinking, and revelry.