The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced to Medieval Europe, passing through Rome and Venice in the 1600s and 1700s and from France to the country’s colonies. Mardi Gras is French for “Fat Tuesday” – also called Shrove Tuesday – referring to the last day of eating rich foods before Lent begins.Ĭelebrations for Mardi Gras in America are most famous in New Orleans, where it is the conclusion of weeks of parades that kick off in January.
