Mardi Gras, which means Fat Tuesday in French, is a celebration that starts on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. It is observed by millions all around the world and is often referred to as Carnival. While Mardi Gras and Carnival are often used interchangeably, there is a key difference between the two. Mardi Gras signifies one day while Carnival encompasses the whole season and begins a period of feasting which starts on Jan. 6. This is known as Feast of the Epiphany.
For the carnival season, many places hold weeks-long extravaganzas complete with parades, which often feature colorful floats and people in costumes, festive balls, as well as other events.
In the United States, many southern cities like New Orleans, Louisiana and Mobile, Alabama participate in the celebration.
In Rome, when Christianity became the prominent religion of the country, it was decided that local traditions would be incorporated with Christian holidays. With Mardi Gras being one of them, the celebration starts before Lent, a practice in which Christians fast for 40 days until Easter Sunday, according to History.com.
As Christianity gained popularity, so did Mardi Gras. Both of them spread to other European countries like France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom.
After making a name for itself in other countries, Mardi Gras started to make a presence in other places like Austria, Brazil, Italy, Portugal, Russia, Switzerland, and Trinidad and Tobago, according to Curious Cuisiniere.
Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and Trinidad and Tobago have the longest carnival celebrations, some of them last for several months from the previous year.
The dates for Mardi Gras vary each year but it always falls 47 days before Easter. This year, Mardi Gras is on Tuesday Feb. 13. As many prepare for the 2024 celebration, take a look at how revelers are taking part in festivities now and have in years past all around the world.
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Mardi Gras and Carnival around the world, through the years
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
