What is Mardi Gras?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mardi_Gras
http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/mardi-gras
Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is a widely celebrated holiday that originated in medieval Europe but has become particularly popular in New Orleans, USA. It is a day of festivities and revelry, marking the day before Lent, a Christian season of fasting and penance that leads up to Easter.
To delve deeper into the history and traditions of Mardi Gras, you can follow these steps:
1. Define Mardi Gras: Start by understanding the basic meaning of Mardi Gras. It is a French term that literally translates to "Fat Tuesday," referring to the last day of indulgence before the austerity of Lent.
2. Research the origins: Explore the origins of Mardi Gras in medieval Europe and how it eventually made its way to the United States, particularly New Orleans. Look into historical events, cultural influences, and the evolution of its traditions over time.
3. Study New Orleans' Mardi Gras: Focus on the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans, which is renowned for its vibrant and extravagant festivities. Learn about key elements such as parades, costumes, masks, music, and the throwing of beads and trinkets from floats.
4. Explore cultural significance: Investigate the cultural significance of Mardi Gras, not only as a religious observance but also as a symbol of community, unity, and celebration. Look into the diverse cultural influences that contribute to the unique flavor of Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
5. Learn about related customs: Discover other customs associated with Mardi Gras around the world, as different regions celebrate it in various ways. For instance, countries like Brazil have their own carnival celebrations, which share similarities with Mardi Gras.
By following these steps, you can gain a thorough understanding of Mardi Gras, its historical background, and its cultural significance in different parts of the world.