Mardi Gras, the Mullen Gala Story
Understanding the history of Mullen High School and how that shaped who we are as a community is essential. Mullen High School has celebrated Mardi Gras for 65 years. “The history of Mardi Gras dates back thousands of years. As Christianity spread, it acted as a time for indulging in rich foods before Lent began on Ash Wednesday, marking the start of fasting” (History.com Editors, 2025). As Christianity expanded, larger Roman Catholic populations around the world embraced the celebration. Some of the most famous places for Mardi Gras include Brazil, Venice, and New Orleans, which draw in thousands of tourists for the festivities (History.com Editors, 2025).
Denver’s excitement about Mardi Gras can be traced back to 1895, when the Denver Chamber of Commerce organized the Festival of Mountain and Plain in an effort to boost local morale with a Mardi Gras-inspired celebration (Parris, 2017).
Because of its popularity throughout the country and the world, Mardi Gras continues to be celebrated in every major city. Denver has embraced Mardi Gras traditions with various events and parades. In 1961, one of the Christian Brothers introduced Mullen to Mardi Gras and inspired the celebration. Little did they know that they would be setting a precedent for years to come, creating a social outing where community members could gather in fellowship, strengthening the Mullen community and supporting our Lasallian identity.
Mardi Gras has taken on many forms throughout the years. At times, there were performances from dancers; during others, there were fundraising elements. But what has remained consistent—and what we still see today—is the understanding that we gather together to recognize the importance of our community and our students who walk these halls.
Mardi Gras looks a little different these days. It has since transformed into our annual gala. Although different, the purpose remains the same: to gather as a community, support Mullen’s mission, reflect on our principles and values, and ultimately, have fun with those around us.
This year, our Mullen Gala will take place where history and beauty are at the forefront. On March 29, 2025, the Mullen Gala will be held at the Denver Art Museum. We would like to extend a sincere invitation for you, our alumni, to join us for this event. Just as we once gathered in community as we walked these halls, we ask you again to gather with us—to share in our excitement, our passion, and our history of Mullen High School.
You may be asking yourself, Why should I go? Why me? The simple fact that you are a Mullen Mustang—that you have contributed to our history and helped shape who we are today—is reason enough. You have earned a seat at the table. Join us for this wonderful night as we celebrate, once more, the history of Mullen High School.
A few exciting things to share: If you are a member of the Class of 2014 to 2024, you qualify for a discounted ticket! Please reach out to Natalie Paul for more information.
As we do every year, we have a raffle for $10,000 or tuition for the 2025-2026 school year. If you’d be interested in purchasing tickets for $100, please contact Patrick Motter at patrick.motter@mullenhigh.com
Citations:
History.com Editors. (2025, February 18). Mardi Gras 2025. HISTORY. A&E Television Networks. Retrieved February 20, 2025, from https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/mardi-gras
Parris, H. (2017, August 28). Festival of Mountain and Plain: 1895. Denver Public Library. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://history.denverlibrary.org/news/denver/festival-mountain-and-plain-1895
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