Mardi Gras: A Brief History
Mardi Gras, which means "Fat Tuesday" in French, is a centuries-old tradition rooted in both European and Christian customs. Its origins trace back to ancient Roman and medieval European celebrations of feasting and revelry before the period of Lent, which is a time of fasting and penance in the Christian calendar. The term "Mardi Gras" specifically refers to the day before Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent
In the United States, Mardi Gras is most famously celebrated in New Orleans, Louisiana. The celebration there began in the early 18th century, when French settlers brought the tradition to the region. The first organized American Mardi Gras celebration took place in 1837. Over the years, the event grew in scale, with the formation of parades, masked balls, and the creation of "krewes" (social organizations that organize the parades and parties). Mardi Gras in New Orleans has become synonymous with vibrant parades, colorful costumes, music, and the iconic tradition of throwing beads to the crowd.
Today, Mardi Gras is a festive occasion celebrated in various parts of the world, especially in countries with strong Catholic traditions, such as France, Italy, and Brazil (where it's known as Carnival). In New Orleans, it remains a major cultural event and an important part of the city's identity.
If you're interested in some light reading to learn more about the history of Mardi Gras, check out these books:
Check out our full collection of books on Mardi Gras and local history at www.arcadiapublishing.com