Date/Time and Location

Mardi Gras, which means Fat Tuesday, is a Christian holiday that takes place on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. Known as Shrove Tuesday in Anglican countries, the main focus of the event is to enjoy rich foods before the 40 days of Lenten fasting begins. Several countries celebrate Mardi Gras, including Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and different regions of the United States. Customs and the duration of the celebration vary by country.