A History of Carnival Class presented by Friends of the Cabildo

The Friends of the Cabildo will return its popular adult history class, A History of Carnival, in 2026 with a three-session virtual seminar beginning January 13. Classes will be held January 13, 14, and 15 from 6–8 p.m. via Zoom, with the final session on January 15 beginning at 4 p.m. All classes will be recorded, and links will be emailed to registered participants following each session.

This year’s seminar will feature an outstanding lineup of scholars and writers, including Dr. Karen Leathem of the Louisiana State Museum, Dr. Kimberly Vaz of Dillard University, NOLA.com writer Doug Macash, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Professor Emeritus Barry Ancelet, historian Frank Perez, and Dr. Charles Chamberlain of the University of New Orleans. Together, the speakers will examine the origins of Carnival, explore Black Carnival traditions, and discuss Mardi Gras music culture, Cajun Mardi Gras, and Gay Carnival, while also tracing the evolution of Mardi Gras throws.

Tuition is $30 for Friends of the Cabildo members and $40 for general admission. Reserve your space today at FriendsoftheCabildo.org.