Louisiana’s Traditional Cajun Mardi Gras Featured in New VICE Documentary
Mardi Gras in South Louisiana is known for its vibrant parades, intricate costumes, and rich cultural traditions. But for those unfamiliar with the traditional Courir de Mardi Gras, a new documentary from VICE offers an up-close look at the unique, centuries-old celebration that continues to thrive in Cajun country.
In 2024, VICE reporter Jackson Garrett made his way to Louisiana to experience what some call the “real” Mardi Gras. While all Mardi Gras celebrations hold their own authenticity, traditional Courir de Mardi Gras stands apart from the more well-known parade culture. Instead of spectators lining streets, Courir is a full community event where everyone participates—no exceptions.
Garrett linked up with local musician and culture bearer Jourdan Thibodeaux, who helped explain the significance of the event and how it has evolved over the years. While traditionally exclusive, the celebration has opened its doors to participants of all backgrounds, including women and people of all races—something that wasn’t always allowed in South Louisiana’s past.
Another stop on Garrett’s journey took him to Eunice, where Jo-El Savoy helped prepare him for a Mardi Gras run. Savoy emphasized that while their Courir remains deeply rooted in tradition, it has also adapted to reflect the times.
In Church Point, Garrett met up with John Weatherall, a well-known documentarian who has captured just about every Mardi Gras style across Louisiana, from big-city celebrations to Creole and Cajun Courir de Mardi Gras. His insight helped VICE gain a deeper understanding of the festival’s wild yet meaningful traditions.
The documentary, titled Blood, Mud, and Booze: Inside Cajun Mardi Gras, is the first episode of VICE’s new series GATHERINGS, which explores cultural events "that foster a sense of belonging." The episode dives into the chaotic yet symbolic traditions of Courir de Mardi Gras, including masked participants on horseback or on foot, traveling from house to house in a boozy scavenger hunt to gather ingredients for a communal gumbo.
From chasing chickens to singing and dancing, the event embodies the spirit of community, generosity, and flat-out acting up before Lent.
Locals who interacted with the VICE crew—such as John Weatherall, Jourdan Thibodeaux, and Drake LeBlanc—had nothing but positive things to say about their experience. According to them, VICE approached the project with genuine respect and investment in the culture, fully immersing themselves in the celebration.
As we enter the heart of Carnival season, this documentary is a must-watch for anyone who wants to see the raw, unfiltered essence of Louisiana’s traditional Mardi Gras. And if you're local, keep an eye out—you might even recognize a few familiar faces in the footage!
Check out some clips from our interview with John Weatherall, Jourdan Thibodeaux, and Drake LeBlanc, where they discuss their experiences with VICE and the essential "rules" of Courir de Mardi Gras.
And if you haven’t seen it yet, watch the full VICE documentary for a deep dive into one of Louisiana’s most beloved and protected traditions.
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Gallery Credit: Aubrey Jane McClaine
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