The Krewe of Carrollton is one of the oldest currently parading krewes, founded in 1924 by a group of Oak Street businessmen. The theme of its ball in 2010 is "It's a Small World" and was held at the Grand Ballroom in the Hilton Riverside hotel in downtown New Orleans.

The tradition of private balls and masked dancing was imported from Europe by the French (who settled the city and ruled until 1763), the first one allegedly thrown by the early Louisiana governor...
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The Krewe of Carrollton is one of the oldest currently parading krewes, founded in 1924 by a group of Oak Street businessmen. The theme of its ball in 2010 is "It's a Small World" and was held at the Grand Ballroom in the Hilton Riverside hotel in downtown New Orleans.

The tradition of private balls and masked dancing was imported from Europe by the French (who settled the city and ruled until 1763), the first one allegedly thrown by the early Louisiana governor Marquis de Vaudereil. The ensuing masked Mardi Gras balls (thrown by the "native" Creole population) pre-date the first "official" Mardi Gras ball by the "Mystick Krewe of Comus", which held its first parade and ball in 1857. Mardi Gras balls (and Mardi Gras parades in general) now largely follow the format laid out by Comus.

Mardi Gras Balls' roots in aristocracy shine through today as most are private events reserved for the well-to-do or upper society of New Orleans. This exclusivity also plays out in the annual selection of a krewe's "royal court", with the queen and her maids often being society debutantes. Additionally, all royalty ride on the first floats of their parade, if they have one.

An unofficial count on the number of balls during Mardi Gras places the number at near 150, with most held in civic centers or hotel ballrooms. In addition to the parading around the ballroom of the year's royalty, balls also traditionally stage a tableau, a depiction of a scene that is in keeping with the theme of the ball.

Although most balls still hold to a standard of exclusivity, many are becoming more democratic and open, especially the newer "super krewes" such as Endymion, whose invitations can be purchased by the general public. While formal attire is still required, the atmosphere of the newer balls is more relaxed and festive than the rigid, traditional affairs. For many though, these newer celebrations are no match for the history and intrigue of the older Mardi Gras balls.
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