Mardi Gras marks the close of the pre-Lenten season. The name itself is French for Fat Tuesday, celebrating the custom of using all the fats in the home before Lent in preparation for fasting and abstinence.

This year, Mardi Gras took place on February 13. In the United States, Mardi Gras is most largely celebrated in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mardi Gras is celebrated in many countries all around the world but most predominantly, Brazil, Italy, France and the U.K. It is the last day of the festive period of Carnival, but traditionally was celebrated for the period of time between the Epiphany and Ash Wednesday. The name “Carnival” is derived from an Italian saying meaning “goodbye meat” to mark the last day before Lent.

Today, people celebrate Mardi Gras through parades, masquerades, dancing, and music. In the United States, Mardi Gras was introduced by the French. Social clubs called ‘Krewes’ organize the parades in Louisiana, generally on the same route each year. The parades include numerous floats and colored beaded necklaces have become a modern custom in America. Mardi Gras has adopted the colors purple, green, and gold that symbolize justice, faith, and power.

Mardi Gras is a beautiful and exciting way to celebrate the Lenten season as a community. It draws forth Catholic values while reminding people the importance of sacrifice and unity. Mardi Gras is a great way to be an active participant in a celebration of faith.