All About History: Mardi Gras

The colors of Mardi Gras

The colors of Mardi Gras

Brooklynn Ruiz, Senior Reporter

Did you know that Mardi Gras is also known as “Pancake Day”? Well, today I’m going to tell you about the History about Mardi Gras, and some interesting facts about it.

Mardi Gras Parade took place on March 3rd, 1699. It started in New Orleans, and then spread throughout the country. It marks the end of the carnival season. Even though partying is the scene of the whole thing, so is “religion, culture, food, history—and the “Star Wars” character Chewbacca” (History ). Check out the source for more information. During the parade, King Cake is eaten. WHAT? Why?! Well, King Cake is typically “made with brioche dough. Braided and laced with cinnamon, the dough is then glazed with purple, green and gold sugar or covered in icing in those same Mardi Gras colors. What really sets King Cake apart from other desserts, however, is the small plastic baby hidden inside. Whoever finds the baby in his or her slice must buy the next cake or perhaps host the next party” (King Cake).

The whole point of Mardi Gras, is to reflect the practice of the last night of eating richer, fatty foods before the ritual fasting of the Lenten Season. The English meaning of Mardi Gras is “Fat Tuesday”. This means this is the last opportunity, and you can eat all of the fat food that you want before Lent Season starts.

Lent is the “period of 40 days which comes before Easter in the Christian calendar” (Lent). In some countries, this day is to confess up, and let everything go! Bead necklaces will be thrown throughout the parade, and it is said that it is an instant hit for Mardi Gras among the residents who live in New Orleans, and tourists who are there. This is a huge parade, and everyone loves celebrating this holiday.

There are some interesting things about Mardi Gras, and it is just a fun way to celebrate for eating rich food. It goes back to all the way to the 1699’s. It is celebrated all over the world and they participate and do different activities.