Who Are the Mardi Gras Indians?

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Mardi Gras Indian Costumes

The costumes worn by the Mardi Gras Indians are exquisite handcrafted masterpieces.  Intricate beading and elaborate headdresses, called crowns, in vibrant colors are constructed over months, sometimes even the entire year, and can cost more than $5,000 each in materials alone.  Wearing one of these elaborate costumes is a feat of athleticism in itself as each one can weigh up to 150 lbs.  By tradition, a new costume must be constructed ever year.