While it’s a good idea to provide Mardi Gras beads for guests when they come in the door, take the tradition a step further by letting guests make masquerade-style Mardi Gras masks. Part costume, part disguise, masks have long been used to transform people and allow individuality as well as anonymity.

Purchase simple unadorned masks as well as feathers, sequins, jewels, ribbon, beads and other embellishments. Provide glitter gel pens and colorful markers for guests to draw fine designs on the masks. Think outside the traditional embellishments; even shaped craft foam can transform a plain old mask into a work of art. Use self-adhesive items when you can or else provide fast-drying white glue so guests can don the masks as soon as possible to keep the party atmosphere alive.

If the party is for adults, consider a mask-making station in one section of the party area. You can have everything all set up and guests can simply assemble what they want as the party goes on. For a teen party or child’s party, make mask decorating part of the activities of the party. It’s a good transition activity from active games to calming the room down. Or, make masks first, then play games while they dry and then guests can wear them for the rest of the party.

You can make elaborate Mardi Gras masks before the party and pass them out to guests along with beads as they enter the party venue. When you have more time to create the masks, you can really go all out. Rather than purchase cheap plastic masks, make your own out of rich fabrics such as velvet, lace and satin. Get creative with shapes; hearts, stars, cat’s eye and masquerade style all work for Mardi Gras masks. Adorn them with beaded ribbons and elaborate feather arrangements. Guests can choose their mask when they arrive, and take the hand crafted Mardi Gras masks home as party favors.

Include handmade masks as part of your Mardi Gras decorations. Decorated masks transform walls and doorways into festive displays of color and sparkle. Go all out and make plaster Mardi Gras masks. Use traditional papier mâché techniques to create a variety of half and full masks. Let them dry before painting