Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras History

Mardi Gras, a term originating from the French meaning 'Fat Tuesday', celebrates the final day of indulgence and celebration before the somber 40-day period of Lent leading up to Easter. It is characterized by extravagant parades, colorful costumes, vibrant music, and generally jubilant gatherings. The celebration is rooted in the Christian calendar and can serve multiple purposes, reflecting cultural traditions and historical events.

This tradition has origins in medieval Europe and travelled to the New World with French explorers. In Canada, Mardi Gras holds cultural relevance, especially in regions with concentrated French-speaking populations such as Quebec. For Canadians, Mardi Gras may offer a unique opportunity to connect with their French heritage. It also serves as a vibrant tourist draw, fostering cultural exchange, promoting local traditions, and delivering economic benefits.

Mardi Gras is not a public holiday in Canada, but it is nevertheless observed by many Canadians, especially in French-speaking communities. These commemorations vary widely across the country, ranging from small parties to larger events that attempt to recreate the spirit of the New Orleans celebration. French bakeries may offer special Mardi Gras treats like king cake. Mardi Gras usually takes place on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, but celebrations in Canada sometimes extend into the weekend to accommodate spectator-friendly parades and other events.

Facts about Mardi Gras

• Some families eat a festive King Cake on Mardi Gras. Although it is traditionally served on Epiphany, many cultures, especially the people of Louisiana, savor the sweet cake the night before Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras cakes are often decorated with a toy baby to represent the baby Jesus.
• Green, gold, and purple are the official colors of Mardi Gras, and they all have roots in Christianity. Green represents faith, while purple symbolizes justice. Gold stands for power.
• Mardi Gras is not celebrated as an official church holiday, but is celebrated because the following day starts Lent, a 40-day period of preparation and penitence before Easter. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, so Mardi Gras, French for "Fat Tuesday", is often the last day that people may indulge before beginning dietary restrictions. In Roman Catholic tradition, the faithful refrain from eating meat during Lent except on Sundays. Fish is acceptable in some Latin American countries.
• The most famous Canadian Mardi Gras celebration, known as "Carnaval de Québec" or Quebec Winter Carnival, takes place in Quebec City. This annual event, which started in 1894, is one of the largest winter carnivals in the world. It features parades, snow sculptures, ice hotels, and various winter activities.
• "Bonhomme Carnaval," the Quebec Winter Carnival's mascot, is an important symbol of the festival, made of snow, ice, and wearing a traditional red toque and arrowhead sash. He represents the spirit of winter and Mardi Gras festivities.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Mardi Gras

Top things to do in Canada for Mardi Gras

• Make your own King cake and serve it to your family and friends.
• Wear purple, green, and gold beads to celebrate the day.
• Mardi Gras North at Blue Mountain Village: This is an event held in Ontario where the village becomes alive with street performers, live music, fireworks, and lots more. Visitors can participate in a variety of fun activities, from bead throws to live music and food.
• Mardi Gras Toronto: This annual event in Toronto is one of the city's biggest parties. The street party often has live music, food vendors, parades, and plenty of festive decor.