It’s the last hurrah today. The last chance to fill your face with the sweets or other goodies that you are depriving yourself of during Lent. The last chance to do the things that you will refrain from doing during Lent. “Mardi Gras” or “Fat Tuesday” is also known around the world as Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day. It is the day when traditionally kitchens and cupboards are cleaned of their sugar, eggs and other “sweet” ingredients and people party in a last ditch effort to fill themselves to excess in order to prepare for the austere and reflective season of Lent.

The most famous of Mardi Gras celebrations take place in this country in New Orleans where a huge parade takes place and celebrating extends into the night and in Brazil in Buenos Aires where it is referred to as “Carnevale”, an equally elaborate celebration.

In some cultures, people eat pancakes on this date in order to use up the ingredients on hand which will not be used during the Lenten period of 40 days.

Enjoy your Mardi Gras however you may choose to celebrate it.

About these ads