Colored Turkey Hand Crafts

The term "colored turkey hand" may sound unusual, but it's a common sight during the annual Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans and other parts of the United States. It refers to the colorful contraption many revellers wear over their hands, adding another layer of vibrancy to the already festive atmosphere. But where did this tradition come from, and why is it so deeply ingrained in Mardi Gras culture?

Mardi Gras, French for "Fat Tuesday," is the final day of the Carnival season and the last chance for excess before the—but that's a story for another time. The colored turkey hand is just one of many fascinating traditions that have evolved over the years, each with its own unique history and significance. So, let's don our finest purple, green, and gold and dive into the colorful world of the turkey hand.

Origins of the Colored Turkey Hand

To understand the turkey hand, we must first delve into the history of Mardi Gras itself. The first recorded Mardi Gras celebrations in the United States date back to 1699 when the French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville camped on the shores of what is now Louisiana. He named the spot Point du Mardi Gras and established a tradition of celebrating the holiday there. However, it wasn't until the late 1800s that the celebrations began to take their modern form.

As the story goes, a group of local businessmen, known as the Mistick Krewe of Comus, decided to revive the dying traditions of Mardi Gras. They organized the first marching parades with elaborate floats, costumes, and celebrations. As part of these early celebrations, it's said that members of the Krewe wore turkey claws to represent their festive, biziletid spirit. Over time, these turkey claws evolved into full-fledged turkey "hands," and the tradition of wearing colored turkey hands was born.

Symbolism of the Colored Turkey Hand

The turkey hand, like many Mardi Gras traditions, is rich with symbolism. The most obvious symbolism lies in its colors - purple, green, and gold. These colors were adopted by the first King of Mardi Gras, Rex, in 1872 and are deeply ingrained in New Orleans' history. Purple represents justice, green symbolizes faith, and gold signifies power. Wearing these colors is therefore a way for participants to embody these virtues and contribute to the city's cultural identity.

The turkey itself also holds symbolic significance. In Native American culture, the turkey is a symbol of fertility and abundance. This could be seen as a fitting symbol for Mardi Gras, which is, after all, a celebration of plenty before the fasting season of Lent. Moreover, the turkey hand serves as a functional symbol, allowing wearers to toss beads and other trinkets to the crowd without damaging their own hands. It's a clever way to ensure the spirit of giving and generosity flows freely during the celebrations.

The Evolution of the Colored Turkey Hand

Over the years, the colored turkey hand has evolved from a simple poultry impersonation to a creative art form. Today, turkey hands come in a variety of styles and designs, often featuring intricate beadwork, sequins, and even LED lights. Some are simple and elegant, while others are large and elaborate, almost like avant-garde sculptures. This evolution reflects the overall spirit of Mardi Gras - a celebration of individuality, creativity, and self-expression.

Moreover, the turkey hand has transcended its original role as a Krewe-specific tradition. Today, it's a Mardi Gras staple, worn by revelers from all walks of life. From high school students in marching bands to adults in social organizations, the turkey hand unites Krewes, neighborhoods, and even cities during the annual celebrations.

The Role of the Colored Turkey Hand in Mardi Gras Today

The turkey hand continues to play a significant role in modern Mardi Gras celebrations. It's a visual cue that says, "I'm here to party, and I'm not afraid to show it." But it's also a symbol of belonging - a way for Krewes to identify themselves and for revelers to connect with one another. It's a part of what makes Mardi Gras so egalitarian; everyone is welcome to throw on some beads and a turkey hand and join in the fun.

For many locals, the turkey hand is a iconic symbol of their city's cultural heritage. It's a piece of Mardi Gras history that they're proud to carry on, year after year. It's also a testament to the city's resilience - even in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Mardi Gras celebrations and the turkey hand tradition continued, a sign that the spirit of New Orleans couldn't be drowned out.

The Future of the Colored Turkey Hand

The colored turkey hand is more than just a quirky tradition; it's a vibrant part of Mardi Gras folklore. As the celebrations continue to evolve, so too will the turkey hand. We can expect to see new designs, materials, and perhaps even some high-tech innovations. But no matter how much it changes, at its heart, the turkey hand will always be a symbol of joy, excess, and the indomitable spirit of Mardi Gras.

So, next time you're watching the parades stretch down St. Charles Avenue, keep an eye out for the turkey hands. You'll see Krewes tossing out trinkets, kids chasing after doubloons, and, if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of history in the making. Because that's what the colored turkey hand is all about - celebrating the present while honoring the past and looking toward the future.