The Meaning of Thalasar
The name Thalasar means “of or pertaining to the sea, ocean, or inland waters.” It reflects the very heart of Galveston’s Nautical Mardi Gras Krewe—rooted in maritime traditions, ocean life, and a shared love of the water.
The Krewe was originally formed by students of Texas A&M University at Galveston, whose studies centered around the ocean and maritime industry. Many pursued degree programs in Marine Biology, Marine Fisheries, Marine Engineering, Marine Science, Marine Transportation, and Maritime Administration. Their common bond was water—whether through academic study, fishing, surfing, swimming, recreational boating, or simply combing the beaches of Galveston.
The Krewe of Thalasar Logo
When the Krewe was founded, members collaborated with a Houston-based graphic designer to create a logo that captured its spirit. Each founder submitted their own ideas and imagery of what Thalasar should represent. After weeks of design work, multiple renderings were presented, and the winning design was unveiled at the Krewe of Thalasar Mardi Gras Ball at the Knights of Columbus Hall.
Every element of the logo carries meaning:
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The Outer Circle
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Top: “The Krewe of Thalasar”
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Bottom: “Mardi Gras Galveston,” grounding the Krewe to its coastal home.
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The Background
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The bow of a schooner or tall ship, symbolizing the enduring mode of transportation across the seas.
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Billowing sails, filled with wind, pushing the ship—and Thalasar—ever forward.
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The Overlay
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A mermaid figurehead, front and center, representing the feminine spirit often tied to ships, as they have traditionally been referred to as “she.” The figurehead embodies the ship’s soul, reflecting the name and identity of Thalasar.
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On the port and starboard sides, leaping billfish—such as marlin, sailfish, or swordfish—known for their strength, speed, and importance to saltwater anglers.
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The Base
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Flowing waves represent the sea, the foundation of Thalasar. Embellished within the waves is a ribbon declaring the Krewe’s year of establishment—anchoring tradition in water, the element that unites us.
