QCP CELEBRATES MARDI GRAS 2011

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QCP’s 164^th Street Day Habilitation and Community Connections Programs went into full “glitter” gear to celebrate the 2011 Mardi Gras season.

Glitter-bedazzeled participants and staff wearing colorful masks, costumes, and lots of beads lead the way through the offices and conference rooms at the QCP Adult Center building.  Hand-made instruments marked the beat as people waved and wished everybody a HAPPY MARDI GRAS as they danced through the hallways….in wheelchairs, walkers and on their own!  Each group had their own Mardi Gras King and Queen with beautiful banners depicting Mardi Gras customs.  It was a fun and educational day!

The parade was followed by a Mardi Gras festive luncheon for all to enjoy.  There was also dancing and a question and answer session about the history of Mardi Gras.  One of the questions was – what are the colors of the Mardis Gras flag and the answer was:  purple representing justice; green, faith; and gold, power.

The term "Mardi Gras” refers to events of the Carnival celebrations, beginning on or after the Epiphany and culminating on the day before Ash Wednesday.  Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday," referring to the practice of the last night of eating richer, fatty foods before the ritual fasting of the Lenten season, which begins on Ash Wednesday.  Popular practices include wearing masks and costumes, overturning social conventions, dancing, sports competitions, and parades.

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