Have a Mythic Mardi Gras
Thursday, February 4th, 2010 by tcg
Thursday’s party idea comes straight from the streets of New Orleans. Many of the parade Krewes borrow their names from mythology. There’s Orpheus and Endymion and the Muses. Egyptian and Norse myths also add to the festivities with Thoth, Isis, and Thor to name a few. Reread a bit of the Odyssey for ideas. Even a little Xandadu might be good for some brainstorming.
I like exploring the myths and legends of different cultures. There are so many great stories and characters to learn about. I received my first copy of Mythology in third grade. It’s fascinating and a great source of costume ideas. Don’t limit yourself to just the Greek and Roman myths. How many times can we retell Pygmalion anyway? Check out some of the Egyptian stories. The tale of Isis and Osiris is particularly interesting.
Don’t stop there. Assign each guest a culture, story, or person. Maybe Frigg and Odin will appear at your party. Who knows, Thor might too. This is party not a dissertation, so blending the comic book version in with the traditional incarnation is acceptable. Encouraged even!
Don’t leave mythic stories to the professionals. Neil Gaiman’s American Gods is a bestselling Hugo Award winning look into the modern history of gods that proves the genre is ripe for plundering. Take a little bit of Mazu and modernize her look, make her your own sea deity. A Yuki-onna costume would be gorgeous and simple with layers of white fabric and blood red lips.
With a little imagination and creativity, you can host a Mardi Gras party that will rival any feast of the gods.
Tags: costume, mardi gras, myths
