Mardi Gras is a time for joy, celebration, and creativity, and what better way to bring a slice of its vibrant culture into your home than with a fun Mardi Gras craft? This jester hat is the perfect activity to keep little hands busy while teaching them about this festive holiday.
With simple supplies and a lot of fun, your kids will create their own Mardi Gras jester hat craft.
Mardi Gras is all about embracing bold colors, festive fun, and the joy of creativity. This jester hat craft lets kids dive into the heart of the celebration by creating their own piece of Mardi Gras magic.
Whether they’re preparing for a costume party, their own mini Mardi Gras parade at home, decorating for Fat Tuesday, or simply enjoying a fun craft at home, this activity is a wonderful way to let their imaginations shine while connecting with the traditions of New Orleans and enjoying this pre-Easter celebration that marks the start of Lent.
What is Mardi Gras?
Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is a lively celebration rooted in New Orleans’ rich history. It’s famous for its colorful parades, festive masks, bead necklaces, and masquerade balls. The traditional Mardi Gras colors which are purple, green, and gold represent justice, faith, and power.
The history of Mardi Gras dates back thousands of years to ancient Roman festivals celebrating the arrival of spring.
Over time, these traditions blended with Christian customs, marking the final day of indulgence before the fasting season of Lent. French settlers brought Mardi Gras to Louisiana in the 1700s, and by the 19th century, it had grown into the colorful celebration we know today, filled with parades, masquerade masks, jester hats like the one we are making in this craft, and plenty of beads.
New Orleans remains the heart of this vibrant holiday, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its unique blend of history and culture.
Kids can experience this vibrant culture through fun crafts like this jester hat, adding their own festive flair to the party.
Learn more about the history of Mardi Gras with our Mardi Gras worksheet.
This jester hat craft is ideal for kids of all ages, from little kids just learning to cut with scissors to older children eager to add their unique touch. It’s a fabulous way to practice fine motor skills, foster creativity, and introduce young children to the traditions of Mardi Gras. This activity is also a great idea for a Mardi Gras party or as part of a festive school project.
What You’ll Need for your Mardi Gras Craft
You don’t need much to make this easy jester hat. With simple supplies like construction paper, scissors, glue, and the free printable template, you’re all set!
If you want to decorate more with gems or jewels, a hot glue gun can also be helpful if you’re crafting with older kids and want a more durable finish.
How to make your own Mardi Gras Jester Hat Craft
Follow along with the simple step by step instructions below to make your own colorful jester hat for Mardi Gras.
Mardi Gras Jester Hat Craft
This colorful jester hat is an easy and fun way to let kids celebrate Mardi Gras in style. Using vibrant Mardi Gras colors and simple materials, this craft will bring the festive spirit of Fat Tuesday right to your home!
Materials
- Colorful construction paper (green, purple and yellow)
- Glue
- Scissors
- Free Printable Template (download below)
- Optional - sequins and gems to decorate
Tools
- Printer for the template if using
Instructions
- Prepare Your Materials
Gather your construction papers, scissors, glue, and printable template. Choose purple, green, and yellow paper to match the traditional Mardi Gras colors. - Cut the Templates
Print and cut out the template. Trace the shapes onto the construction paper and cut them out. First, cut the bottom of the hat onto the yellow construction paper. This looks like a crown shape
- Then the three shapes for the hat with purple and green
- Assemble the Hat
Glue the main pieces together to form the hat base. And attach the crown-like template at the bottom for an extra pop of flair.
- Cut small yellow circles for the bells on the end of the hat
- Glue the small circles to the ends of the hat points for that classic jester look.
- Adding beads or faux gems can add a bit of sparkle if you like.
Let the Good Times Roll! This jester hat craft isn’t just a fun way to celebrate Mardi Gras; it’s a wonderful activity that lets kids use their imagination while learning about the holiday’s vibrant traditions.
Whether your kids are making their own parade or dressing up for a Mardi Gras celebration, this craft is a fantastic way to bring the party to life.
Download the Free Printable Mardi Gras Craft Template
Ready to get started? Download the free printable templates to make this craft even easier! With just a few clicks, you’ll have everything you need to create this colorful masterpiece.
Terms of use: This Mardi Gras craft template is free for personal use and classroom use. Not for commercial use. Do not redistribute this file.
Crafting this jester hat is a simple, joyful way to introduce kids to the vibrant culture of Mardi Gras. Let them explore the holiday’s traditions while creating something uniquely their own. Whether you’re hosting a Mardi Gras party or just looking for some festive fun, this craft is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy Mardi Gras!
More Mardi Gras Activities for Kids
Looking for even more fun Mardi Gras crafts and activities? From easy Mardi Gras masks to festive paper plate creations, there’s no better way to keep the good times rolling. Explore these exciting ideas to add a touch of Mardi Gras magic to your home.
- Mardi Gras Mask Craft with Free Printable Template
- Free Printable Mardi Gras Activity Mat Worksheets
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Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.