Mardi Gras, or "Fat Tuesday," is a vibrant tradition that marks the last day of indulgence before the Christian season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. Rooted in ancient Roman celebrations like Saturnalia, Mardi Gras evolved as Christianity spread, blending local customs—most notably Carnival festivities—with religious observances. The name itself originates from French, with the word gras meaning "fat," referring to rich, fatty foods like meat, eggs, and cheese that are traditionally enjoyed before the fasting season begins.
Happy Fat Tuesday!
Today in History
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Molokini Crater, Maui, Hawaii
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An oceanic valentine
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Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley National Park, California
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Nha Phu Bay, Nha Trang, Vietnam
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Don t forget—it’s World Elephant Day
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The snows of Fuji
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Let the Highland games begin
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Muniellos Nature Reserve
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A Latino art exhibition in Denver
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The Roaches ridge in the Peak District, England
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Pacific Park, Santa Monica State Beach, California
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St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland
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Back to the nest
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Mexico celebrates its Independence Day
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Maloja, Switzerland
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Feeling crabby?
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The Canary Islands, Spain
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Cherry blossoms at the National Mall, Washington, DC
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Colorful cows of the reef
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Rapa Nui National Park, Easter Island, Chile
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Inhale and exhale, it’s Yoga Day
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20 years later
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Combating extinction with citizen science
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Breaking the fast for Eid
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Cloudy with a chance of enlightenment
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Mooncake time
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The desert blooms
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Spring comes to the Diablo foothills
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Raise your hand for Teacher Appreciation Day
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World Population Day
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