So you want to know what Mardi Gras Is?

In order to understand Mardi Gras which is very similar to Carnival, you first need to understand common Catholic practices. In the Catholic Church there is something called Liturgical Year or Liturgical Calendar. This is a chronological guideline to all the different seasons, saints, and celebrations. There is a season in the liturgical calendar called Lent. Lent is the most significant driver of Mardi Gras which literally translates to Fat Tuesday in French. Lent is a season of deep reflection with an intense  focus on prayer, fasting and almsgiving (charity). Lent is 40 calendar days and a direct correlation to Christ's 40 day fast in the desert when he is tempted by Satan. Now any self respecting individual will behave in a gluttonous manner if they plan on fasting all of their vices for 40 Days. 

What makes me the authority on Catholicism?

The above are my First Communion pictures

Back on track!

The first official Mardi Gras to take place on US soil was in Mobile, Alabama back in 1703. (trivia) The practice was brought to the states by French Catholics. As the years have evolved, it has become less of a religious holiday and more of a mainstream, secular party for anyone to enjoy. 

Mystic Societies

Mystic societies have become a staple for Mardi Gras Practices. They are essentially secret organizations of mostly social elites. Their festivities start in November all the way to New Year's Eve Masquerade Balls. I really wish I could elaborate on this but hey, THEY ARE SECRET.

King Cakes

Kind cakes are another religious reminder of Mardi Gras. Starting in early January we celebrate The Epiphany or 3 King's Day. This is a Christian reminder of the wise men's revelation and visitation of The Christ Child. King Cakes are a sweet cake where a small porcelain baby is hidden inside of the cake to be a symbol of Baby Christ. When it is found, that is the revelation and supposedly good luck.

Why am I dressed like a fool?

Courir de Mardi Gras is what we call it where I am from. It's a Cajun term that means Run of Fat Tuesday. To be honest thi sis something I have done my entire life and have no idea why it differs so much from contemporary Mardi Gras practices. What I do know is that Courir de Mardi Gras dates back to medieval times in France. It was a practice where people would dress up and beg door to door very similar to Halloween.

Take Away

Mardi Gras is laden with religious overtones. It's an opportunity to rejoice before intense reflection. Ultimately it has become a cultural celebration that allows communities to come together and share a common bond. Some of us are celebrating gout of religious obligation and others out of an opportunity to party.

Tour de Sneak Peek

Read ahead to see what we did this Mardi Gras and how we will show you how to cook crawfish like a Cajun/Creole