What is Mardi Gras?

Worksheet Description

The worksheet provides a comprehensive description of Mardi Gras, offering historical and cultural context to this vibrant celebration. It explains the origins of the holiday, its traditional timing, and how it has come to be associated with the city of New Orleans. It touches upon the European roots of the festival and its transposition to American soil, highlighting how the customs and celebrations of Mardi Gras have been embraced and adapted in the United States.

Additionally, the worksheet educates on the symbols and customs unique to Mardi Gras, such as the significance of the official colors, the practice of wearing masks and costumes, and the tradition of parades and king cakes. It clarifies the communal spirit behind the iconic “throws” and the enthusiasm that surrounds the collective experience of the festivities. The description encapsulates Mardi Gras as a time of communal joy and revelry that precedes the contemplative period of Lent, illustrating the cultural importance of this festival and its role in the cultural tapestry of New Orleans and beyond. This resource serves as an informative tool for students to learn about the significance of Mardi Gras in both a historical and contemporary context.