At Jean Lafitte House, our guests often ask about the origins of our city's most famous celebration. As we prepare for another magnificent Mardi Gras season, we thought we'd share the fascinating history behind this beloved tradition that has become synonymous with New Orleans culture.

'Twas All Hallows' Eve on Lake Pontchartrain

Where ghost lights dance through the misty rain

My crew all whisper of spirits at night

While jack-o'-lanterns cast eerie light

The cypress trees drip with Spanish moss gray

As phantom pirates their secrets betray

My treasures lie scattered 'neath Louisiana ground

Where skeletal guardians still prowl around

So heed ye this warning on Halloween night

When crossing these waters by pale moonlight

For though I be gone these two hundred years

My ghostly crew still brings sailors to tears…

Welcome to "From the Desk of Jean Lafitte," the official blog of Jean Lafitte House, where history and hospitality intertwine like the winding streets of the French Quarter. Just as seafarers of old would cast messages into the vast ocean, hoping to reach distant shores, we send out these tales of our historic boutique hotel, inviting you to embark on a journey through time…