History of Mardi Gras in Timeline
Mardi Gras, French for "Fat Tuesday," marks the culmination of Carnival and precedes Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent. Celebrated on the day before Lent, it traditionally involves indulging in rich, fatty foods before the Lenten fasting period begins. This reflects a historical practice of consuming remaining rich foods before abstaining during Lent. Mardi Gras is observed in several regions, including New Orleans, and involves parades, parties, and revelry.
1991: Increased Body-Baring Instances
At Mardi Gras 1991, social scientists observed 1,200 instances of body-baring in exchange for beads or other favors, linked to the rise of commercial videotapes.
2003: Carnival of Binche Recognized by UNESCO
In 2003, the Carnival of Binche was recognized by UNESCO as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
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