Historically, the ritual slaughter of the boeuf gras symbolized the feasting that occurred prior to the Lenten season of atonement and abstinence. A papier-mache representation of this Carnival icon is a permanent fixture of the Rex parade. An invitation extended to those who are requested to participate in the first round of dances at a Carnival Ball. The practice was initiated by Krewe of Proteus in 1893. The make-believe royalty of a Carnival organization.
Dukes are customarily eligible bachelors who serve as escorts to the maids.
Usually made of aluminum, they typically bear a krewe's emblemon one side and the theme of its parade on the other. A razzle-dazzle party at a large venue, typically the Convention Center or Superdome, where thousands of attendees raise a ruckus. Unlike the decorous balls thrown by high-society krewes, these events, though requiring formal attire, feature nationally known musical acts and often draw celebrity guests. Setting the standard, The Orpheuscapade, Endymion Extravaganza and Bacchus Rendezvous are the ultimate destinations for their sponsoring organizations' parades, which literally roll in from the street as float riders bombard the assembled guests with beads and other trinkets. A souvenir presented by maskers to partners called out.