Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras - some people spell it "Mardis Gras" - is one of the most spectacular and entertaining events on the Easter calendar. Although the roots are French, it is today more often associated with the Americas than with Europe.

Float In Rex Parade At Mardi Gras, New Orleans, U.S.A.
Skrypczak, Witold
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What Is Mardi Gras?

The name Mardi Gras literally means Fat Tuesday. This is another name for Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. In some countries - notably the UK - it is known as pancake Tuesday or pancake day.

The New Orleans Mardi Gras is probably the best known and has been called "the greatest free show on earth".

Mardi Gras marks the end on the carnival period (carnivale) that precedes Lent. It is known for being the day (and night!) of the biggest party. It is a chance for people to let their hair down before (in theory) observing the restrictions of Lent. Exotic costumes, masks, beads and make up are to be found in abundance.

Presumably this mass act of indulgence is the origin of the phrase "Fat Tuesday" as people prepare for the fast to come.

When Is Mardi Gras 2007?

Since it is based around the date of Easter - which is itself calculated according to the lunar calendar - Mardi Gras is a moveable feast. The date varies from year to year, anything from the 3rd of February to the 9th of March.

Mardis Gras 2007 will be on Tuesday February 20.

History

Like so many of the Easter customs, Mardi Gras has ancient roots, possibly pagan. The whole of Easter relates to pagan observances of spring and rebirth.

The Mardi Gras itself has been connected to a variety of ancient sources including the Roman Lupercalia (also linked to Valentine's Day) and Saturnalia. The ancient festivals were later incorporated into the Christian tradition of Easter.

The celebration of Mardi Gras was common in Paris and was introduced to the US by French explorers and settlers at the end of the 17th century.

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