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Where to get Mardi Gras beads and throws in Lafayette

WaTeasa Freeman, Lafayette Daily Advertiser
·2 min read

Beads and throws are an essential part of Mardi Gras celebrations. Giving and receiving them make memories that last for years.

The tradition of throwing beads started in the 1870s when Twelfth Night Revelers threw beads made of cheap glass into crowds. As time progressed beads remained the most popular throw seen at Mardi Gras but other popular items include: cups, rings, doubloons, masks, toys and even coconuts.

Float-riders throw beads to spectators as the Independent Parade rolls through downtown Lafayette on Mardi Gras Day, March 5, 2019.
Float-riders throw beads to spectators as the Independent Parade rolls through downtown Lafayette on Mardi Gras Day, March 5, 2019.

Whether you are preparing for a parade or sending a Mardi Gras care package to friends around the world, here are 4 places to get beads and throws for carnival.

Beads for Less

Located at 124 Bertrand Drive in Lafayette, Beads for Less is a one stop destination for all things Mardi Gras. From specialty beads and masks to light up throws and stuffed animals they have you covered. Selling most items in bulk, Beads for Less is a great visit for classroom and business Mardi Gras celebrations. Just look for the purple, green and gold building or visit them online mardigrasbeadsforless.com

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Beads Galore

Home of the self proclaimed Bead King, Beads Galore in Lafayette hosts an inventory of beads, throws, masks, costumes and more. Located at 4909 Cameron Street with a sister location, Bead Busters & Float Rentals, at 2034 Bonin Road in Youngsville. For new inventory and information visit facebook.com/beadsgalorelafayette

Mardi Gras Beads-n-More

This bead store is a part of LARC's enterprise job program that recycles and cleans beads to be used again. They also sell some popular throws like stuffed animals and trinkets. The grab bags are the most popular item in this bead store but custom bead orders can be made. All proceeds benefit LARC’s Vocational Services Department. For more information visit lafayettelarc.org/mardi-gras-beads-n-more. Mardi Gras Beads-n-More is located at 303 New Hope Road in Lafayette.

LARC collects, sorts, packages and resells Mardi Gras beads, keeping those beads in circulation and out of the trash.
LARC collects, sorts, packages and resells Mardi Gras beads, keeping those beads in circulation and out of the trash.

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Party City

Known for being an all-in-one party destination, Party City carries a wide range of Mardi Gras themed decorations, beads and throws. If you are looking to please a large crowd or needing last minute touches for your get together Party City is the place for you. Located at 5700 Johnston Street in Lafayette you can also order online at www.partycity.com.

Connect with WaTeasa Freeman by email wfreeman@theadvertiser.com or on Twitter @wateasaf

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Where to buy Mardi Gras throws, beads in Lafayette