So many celebrations happening soon! Mardi Gras, also known as Carnival, is the time right before Lent begins–a fasting period in the Catholic tradition in which people sacrifice something to become closer to God, just as God sacrificed his son for us.
But that’s the religious aspect. Carnival is a time of partying, festivities, and feasts before all the fasts. You’ve probably heard of the crazy Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans that’s full of fun and debauchery, but what about the rest of the world?
Carnevale in Italy
Carnevale began as a pagan winter tradition in Italy. In 1268, Venice began the tradition of masked balls. And today in Ivrea, they reenact the “Battle of the Oranges,” a medieval battle that today is just a large food fight.
Carnival in Brazil
One of the biggest Carnival celebrations is in Rio de Janeiro, with five-day festivals and parades, a tradition that began in 1723. Today, 2 million tourists flood the streets to celebrate.
Shrove Tuesday in Belgium
Every year on Shrove Tuesday, the men of Binche take up sticks and dance to the sound of drums. In a parade, they throw oranges at spectators. It’s good luck to catch one!
Fastnacht in Austria
Locaks of Tyrol like to celebrate the end of winter and beginning of spring by dressing up in large wooden masks. Some familiar characters they use are the bear, the witch, the singer, the jingle ring holder, the roller, and the sweeper.
Holi in India
In Goa the residents celebrate the Hindu festival of Holi around this same time. Here, they douse each other in buckets of colorful water.
Adventure is Out There 