What to expect if you attend a Mardi Gras ball

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)—Mardi Gras brings people together from all walks of life to enjoy a tradition of revelry, parades, king cake, and royal pageantry.

The Krewe of Gemini was established in 1989 and hosted its annual Grand Ball on February 15, 2025. This year’s event was sold out, with 1,350 people going to the Shreveport Convention Center through a brief rainstorm to dance the night away to a DJ and live band and enjoy an open bar.

If you have never attended a traditional Mardi Gras grand ball or “bal,” it is quite a spectacle.

The ceremonial purpose of the event is a royal transfer of power. The reigning king and queen take their final walk and enjoy their final moments until the newly crowned king and queen, who were coronated at a separate ceremony, are formally introduced to their royal subjects.

Other royal court members and the princes and princesses of Gemini were present during the ball, and they also acknowledged former kings, queens, and Krewe captains.

The theme of the ball’s tableau was Dreamcatchers, and a beautiful, iridescent dreamcatcher hung from the ceiling in the center of the room, surrounded by elegantly decorated tables representing dreams, natural elements, or a combination of both. A large dreamcatcher was also placed in the center of the stage from which past and present royalty ascended.

The theme is a nod to Native American cultural practices that intricately weave patterns in circles meant to trap bad dreams, and all good dreams pass through. Each member of the royal court’s introduction questioned the line between dreams and nightmares.

Attendees, including royalty members of local Mardi Gras Krewes, were also on hand and recognized as honored guests.

The event required formal dress, and attendees were ready. Beautiful gowns of every color and men who were clean-cut and suited to fit filled the convention center, all looking to push forward a Louisiana tradition and have a good time.

What to expect if you go to a Mardi Gras ball

If you are considering attending a Mardi Gras ball, consider a few things before you buy a ticket. Every ball is different. Some have food, while others require attendees to provide their own food or drink. Some balls have cash bars, while others offer an open bar. Krewes may ask attendees to follow a particular theme or close the doors during the royal presentation and receiving line.

Learning ball etiquette is a great way to ensure you have a good time without misunderstanding the norms and traditions associated with the event you are attending.

• Most grand balls require formal attire. Before attending, check the Krewe’s rules and dress code requirements.
• Ticket prices vary. The level of entertainment and amenities of the ball experience will determine the ticket price. If your desired ball features nationally known or award-winning talent, expect a higher ticket than a strictly local production. Also, consider if the price of a ticket gets you a seat at a table or if it is general admission.
• Most balls are ceremonial presentations wrapped inside a party, so photo opportunities are abundant to capture the moment.
• Have fun. Mardi Gras is a time to relax, indulge in fun, and escape the world’s trouble—whatever the problem, it will still be there on Ash Wednesday.
• Get dressed to the nines and attend at least one Mardi Gras ball because it’s fun. With so many Krewes in the area and across the state, you have many options to find the Krewe and the ball that suit you.

Laissez les bons temps rouler!