For all the posts in this Holidays & Observances series, go here.
Prologue: I have been meaning to write a series about Holidays and Observances that we (my family and friends) follow in both India (my birth country) and USA (my adopted country). This series is dedicated to those. On a side note, perhaps I might witness some of the celebrations from other countries as well that may get their way into this series. š
Mardi Gras aka Fat Tuesday celebrated the day before Ash Wednesday and the Lent season begins. This year (2023) it was on February 21st. The festival season and the festivities accompanying with it varies from state to state and country to country.
Most popular tradition followed in US for Mardi Gras is based on what is done in New Orleans, Louisiana; at least what I have seen or heard. It is a two weeks long event with elaborate and exquisite parades in the final week. There are several masquerade balls organized where patrons dress up in their best gowns and suits wearing decorative and beautiful masques.
I never got a chance to see a Mardi Gras parade. However, this year for my Galentine’s Day I had a masquerade party that involved beautiful masques. Apt for the month of February when Galentine’s Day and Mari Gras are one week apart.
Galavant Reflections 