Mardi Gras
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That year, 1872, set the pattern for the Mardi Gras that is celebrated today.. The Grand Duke
Alexis was surprised and honored to sit on the float and play the role of Rex. Alexis and
Lydia, her loved one whom he had fallowed to New Orleans, probably never even met, but
they began a tradition. Rex and his queen are chosen each year to ride on the largest float.
They are masked and in costume. Those around the royalty, called "maskers," toss "throw-
outs" to the crowd in response to the traditional cry, "Throw me something mister!" The
"throw-outs" are large tin coins, plastic beads and other trinkets.
Colours
The traditional colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green,
and gold. These colors are said to have been chosen by
Grand Duke Alexis Romanoff Alexandrovitch. For the
Grand Duke, the decision was simple, and true to his
noble roots, he selected the official colors of the House
annaabi.ee 
