When you’re thinking of Mardi Gras hot spots, you probably don’t think of Chattanooga right away. But don’t be fooled ... there’s some good merrymaking happening in our city. 🎉

What’s Mardi Gras all about anyway? Here’s some facts to think about while you’re partying:

Mardi Gras (or Fat Tuesday) is celebrated all over the world, with festivals in Belgium, France, Russia, the UK + many more. 🌍
The official season of Mardi Gras begins on Jan. 6, which is the feast day Epiphany in the church calendar.
Some Mardis Gras celebrations (like the one in New Orleans) last from Jan, 6. all the way through Ash Wednesday (March 6) though many festivals are celebrated in the final days before Ash Wednesday.
Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent, which is the penitential season before Easter. Traditionally, Christians practice some form of abstention during the 40 days of Lent (meaning you fast or give up something). ❌
Mardi Gras celebrations usually involve drinking and eating fatty, rich foods before the Lenten fasting season. (Might as well go out with a bang, right?)

Bookmark these Mardi Gras events on your calendar.