year, the people of southern Louisiana begin their celebration of Carnival, an exuberant

explosion of parades and parties that reaches its grand climax on Mardi Gras.

Many people think that Mardi Gras is just another name for Carnival, but the terms have

different meanings. Mardi Gras, which is French for "Fat Tuesday", refers to only one day.

Carnival, on the other hand, refers to the entire period from Twelfth Night (January 6) until

midnight on Mardi Gras. Because Mardi Gras comes exactly forty-six days before Easter, it can

fall on any Tuesday from February 3 to March 9. This year it is on February 11.

Mardi Gras is not just something to watch, it's something to be part of. You can pretend

to be someone different and live a fantasy for a day. It's a time for children and grown-ups

alike. An entire family can dress crazy and not stand out in a crowd. It's a time for people of all

ages, races, and religions to come together in a spirit of goodwill.

When people celebrate Mardi Gras, they are carrying on a tradition that dates back to

ancient times. Spring festivals were held to ensure the fertility of animals

young girls dream of becoming a queen.

thousand participants. Marching bands, dancers, clowns and motorcycle units all participate in

But like Cinderella, when the clock strikes twelve, Carnival is over and the streets must

Mardi Gras worked its magic on the newcomers.

Gras came to America when some hardy French explorers landed near the mouth of the

crowds shouting "Throw me something, mister!". Maskers on the floats respond by flinging

Some common words found in the essay are:
Mardi Gras, Carnival Orleans, mardi gras, White Eagles, King Queen, Gras Christmas, Magi Whoever, Southern Louisiana, Orleans Creoles, French Fat, Moyne Sieur, people southern louisiana, spirit mardi gras, ages races religions, people ages, beads trinkets, people southern, gras people, people celebrate, races religions, mardi gras people, southern louisiana, king cakes, people ages races, ages races,
Approximate Word count = 1083
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)