CLOSING: Carnival in the Nation’s Capital: The Washington Mardi Gras Ball

Join us for the last chance to see Carnival in the Nation’s Capital: The Washington Mardi Gras Ball. The exhibition closes on September 16. 

The exhibition Carnival in the Nation’s Capital: The Washington Mardi Gras Ball showcases the story of Louisiana’s not-to-be-missed annual celebration. Begun in 1944 by homesick Louisianians eager to introduce fellow Washingtonians to their favorite holiday, Washington Mardi Gras has expanded to a three-day whirlwind of parties, brunches, dinners, and networking, culminating in a formal ball under the auspices of the Mystick Krewe of Louisianians. The state’s congressional delegation plays a major role, with Senators Russell Long and John Breaux serving as the longtime captains of the krewe, which is led today by U.S. House Minority Whip Steve Scalise. In addition to the royal court, the ball honors about two dozen queens representing Louisiana’s colorful festivals, including the Strawberry, Orange, Frog, and Shrimp and Petroleum Festivals.

Top Image (left to right): Vice President Richard Nixon; queen Dawn Marie Hebert, daughter of Congressman F. Edward Hebert; and king James A. Noe, former governor of Louisiana, 1953. Gift of Dawn Hebert, 2013.046.10.