Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is an annual festival that celebrates the end of winter and the arrival of spring. The date of the holiday varies each year — it falls 47 days before Catholic Easter.

History

The celebration of Mardi Gras marks the beginning of Lent. On this day, large-scale parades and vibrant festivals take place, with the most famous celebrations held in New Orleans. The holiday is also popular in Western Europe.

Mardi Gras has pagan roots that later blended with Catholic traditions. Traditionally, people prepare a variety of festive treats such as cream buns, pies, and pancakes. Today, Mardi Gras festivities have reached a grand scale, featuring colorful parades, people dressed in elaborate costumes, lively music, dance and song contests, and an abundance of homemade sweets.

Each year, Mardi Gras begins with the greeting of the king and queen, who lead the carnival procession. According to one legend, this tradition began in 1827 when Russian Prince Alexei Alexandrovich visited New Orleans for his beloved, an American actress named Lydia Thompson. Locals organized a parade in his honor and prepared a platform marked “Rex” (“King”), which led to him being named the first King of Mardi Gras. The custom has continued ever since.

Interesting Facts

• During Mardi Gras, colorful beads are thrown from parade floats, symbolizing luck, health, and prosperity.
• The core traditions of the festival include eating, drinking, and enjoying lively entertainment before Lent begins.
• The formal recognition of Mardi Gras as a church feast was established by the Pope in the 16th century.

How to Take Part

If you have the chance, visit New Orleans to experience the largest and most vibrant Mardi Gras celebration in the world. Prepare some festive desserts or pastries — there are countless recipes available online.

Share your celebration photos or memories on social media. Ask others about their favorite Mardi Gras experiences.

When is Mardi Gras in 2026?

Mardi Gras begins on or after the Christian feast of the Epiphany (Three Kings Day) and culminates on the day before Ash Wednesday.

Observations