The Origins of Mardi Gras

Though New Orleans is the city most commonly associated with the Mardi Gras celebration in America, many historians believe that the festival actually originated in nearby Mobile, Alabama.

The celebration, which can be dated back to 1703 in Mobile, was originally called Boef Gras (Fat Beef). The name changed to “Fat Tuesday” as it became a widely known festival in the 1830s and 1840s.

The date of Mardi Gras depends on the date of Easter. Mardi Gras takes place the day before Ash Wednesday, which begins the 40-day season of Lent before Easter. “Fat Tuesday” is the last day to celebrate before the season of discipline and contemplation that leads up to Easter Sunday.

This year, Mardi Gras will be celebrated on March 4.

Source: www.mobilemardigras.com