Mardi Gras is an annual festival celebrating the end of winter and the arrival of spring. The date of the holiday constantly changes. It is 47 days before Catholic Easter.
History
The celebration of Mardi Gras heralds the beginning of Lent. On this day, there are mass events and colorful festivals. The most memorable celebrations take place in New Orleans. The holiday is also popular in Western Europe.
Mardi Gras has pagan roots that have successfully merged with Catholic traditions. On this day, people prepare various treats such as cream buns, pies, pancakes, and more. Today, Mardi Gras celebrations have taken on an unprecedented scale with colorful events where people dress up in costumes depicting monsters, loud music plays, song and dance contests are held, and homemade cakes are available for purchase.
Each year, Mardi Gras begins with a greeting of the king and queen, who lead the carnival. It is believed that this tradition started in 1827 when Russian Prince Alexei Alexandrovich went to New Orleans for his beloved, an actress from the United States named Lydia Thompson. There was a celebration going on. People learned of the prince’s arrival and made a platform with “Rex” written on it especially for him. That’s how he became the king of the festival. In later years, the tradition continued.
Interesting Facts
- During the Mardi Gras festival, beads are often handed out, symbolizing health and prosperity.
- The main conditions to follow at the feast are to eat, drink, and be entertained.
- The official celebration of Mardi Gras was instituted by the Pope in the 16th century.
How to Celebrate
If possible, be sure to visit New Orleans for the largest Mardi Gras celebration ever. Bake sweet treats for the holiday. There are always recipes online!
Spread the word on social media. Ask other users about their most memorable moments at the festival.
When is Mardi Gras in 2025?
Mardi Gras begins on or after the Christian feast of the Epiphany (Three Kings Day) and culminates on the day before Ash Wednesday.
Observations
| Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
| Tuesday | March | 4 | 2025 |
| Tuesday | February | 17 | 2026 |
| Tuesday | February | 9 | 2027 |
| Tuesday | February | 29 | 2028 |
| Tuesday | February | 13 | 2029 |
