Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday, or Shrove Tuesday has long been the day of celebration before the beginning of Lent in the Catholic faith. It has its roots in a pagan culture but has since been changed by the faith to be a good and true celebration influenced by the culture of those who celebrate it.
In many places, this includes parades, balls, and any number of public celebrations.
In years past, this day was an opportunity for families to consume foods that they would not be able to eat during Lent, so they did not spoil. This included dairy, eggs, and sugar. For Catholics, it is also a day to prepare ourselves for the season of Lent.
We take this chance to partake of those things we will be giving up as a sacrifice until Easter.
What are some of the ways that you celebrate Mardi Gras?