Mardi Gras Queens

The French name Mardi Gras is a translation of "Fat Tuesday". It is derived from the Roman Catholic tradition of using all the fatty foods in the home prior to lent in preparation for fasting and abstinence for 40 days. The final celebration is held one day prior to the beginning of lent and includes elaborate costumes, a traditional parade, and the intriguing masked ball.

Mardi Gras masks were originated in these traditions and celebrations. The mask was a way for one to be disguised while mingling with other classes and engaging in deviant behaviors without retribution. The transcendence of the mask holds the magic and the power of the entire Mardi Gras celebration.

Various destination sites for Mardi Gras celebrations include; Munich, Cologne, France, Spain, Rome, Switzerland, Venice, and the two most notable destinations, Rio de Janeiro and the ever popular New Orleans