The fatted bull, or “Boeuf Gras,” a symbol of the last meat before the Lent Fast, plays a central role in Rex’s celebrations. In the first Rex parade in 1871, a real bull named “Old Jeff” trudged the route in flowered garlands. Rex stopped parading live oxen in 1900. In 1959, the animal was resurrected in papier-mâché form, surrounded by krewe members dressed as cooks. Today, Rex members also toss small plush toy boeuf gras throws from their floats.
Eight Things You Didn’t Know About Mardi Gras
Fat Tuesday in New Orleans is famous as a flamboyantly louche street celebration. But there's much more to it than booze and beads.