Origin Stories Behind 20 Holidays

Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is a Christian religious holiday that occurs the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. Its roots are in pagan Roman holidays and festivals.

Mardi Gras originated as a Christian version of excessive Roman festivities, such as Saturnalia, to help incorporate the Christian faith into local traditions. It also offered a precursor to Lent, the Christian season of sacrifice and penance.