Art Mann Presents Season 7 Episode 5 Joe Cain Day in Alabama
- March 24, 2011
On this episode of Art Mann Presents season 7, viewers are taken on a wild ride to Mobile, Alabama for the annual celebration of Joe Cain Day. This day is a unique and beloved holiday throughout the city, commemorating the life of a man named Joe Cain who helped to bring Mardi Gras to the state.
Art Mann is on hand to witness all of the interesting and lively traditions that go along with Joe Cain Day. He begins by visiting the Krewe of Columbus, a group of men who are dressed in tuxedos and top hats for the occasion. The Krewe of Columbus is an integral part of the Joe Cain Day celebrations, dating back over 100 years. The men of the Krewe ride on horseback throughout the city, visiting different neighborhoods and participating in the festivities.
Art also checks out the Battle of the Bands, which is another important aspect of Joe Cain Day. School marching bands from all over the region come to compete against each other in a friendly competition. The crowds are loud and enthusiastic, adding to the excitement of the event.
Later, Art visits a group called the Excelsior Band, who keep a unique Joe Cain Day tradition alive. For years, the Excelsior Band has been using old umbrellas as props during their performances. They paint and decorate the umbrellas in bright colors and use them to dance and twirl around while playing their instruments. The result is a sight to behold, and Art is thrilled to capture it all on camera.
Of course, no Joe Cain Day celebration would be complete without a parade, and Art is front and center to experience it all. The streets of Mobile are filled with elaborate floats, colorful costumes, and enthusiastic parade-goers. He finds himself surrounded by all sorts of characters and personalities, from drag queens to marching bands to giant puppets.
Another highlight of the parade is the infamous Joe Cain Procession. This parade is a unique take on a traditional funeral procession, complete with pallbearers carrying a coffin and mourners in black. However, this procession has a lighthearted twist – the mourners are actually celebrating the life of Joe Cain and ushering in the start of Mardi Gras season.
Throughout the episode, Art Mann also takes time to explore the history of Joe Cain himself. He visits the Joe Cain Cottage, which is a small house where Joe Cain lived and died. The cottage has been preserved as a museum, with many artifacts and displays about Joe Cain's life, as well as the history of Mobile and Mardi Gras celebrations in the city.
Overall, Joe Cain Day in Alabama is a lively and unique celebration that is not to be missed. Art Mann and his crew capture all of the excitement and joy of the event, while also educating viewers about its origins and cultural significance. Whether you are a fan of Mardi Gras celebrations or just interested in learning more about unique American holidays, this episode of Art Mann Presents is a must-watch.
