This long-awaited week includes tons of pre-lent celebrations. Lent is a Christian celebration lasting a period of 40 days. During this time, Christians replicate the sacrifice of Jesus Christ by offering up things such as food and habits. Reverend Larkin says, “it is like deep cleaning. Not only cleaning what is visible but getting under your bed and pulling out what is stored in the attic and basement, into the light.” This celebration differs from Easter in the event that Easter is centered on the resurrection of Christ, whereas Lent calls to mind the events prior to His crucifixion.

Mardi Gras is a tradition dating back all the way to 1699 when explorers, Iberville and Bienville, landed near what is now New Orleans, Louisiana. In years to come, settlers began marking this holiday with parties, parades, masquerade balls and exquisite cuisine. What a lot of people don’t realize is the amount of work that goes on behind the scenes. Different “krewes” throughout the area host luncheons, dinner parties, balls, and design floats. However, not all of these events are free to the public. Typically, to attend, one must be a member of the krewe or of close relations to a member; however, some krewes sell tickets to their balls that are made available to the public. This is also the week that Le Festival de Mardi Gras a’ Lafayette comes to town. Located at Cajun Field, hundreds of people gather to ride carnival rides with their friends and play arcade games. Junior Alyse Cormier describes it as “a time where everyone in Louisiana comes together and the streets are filled with happiness!”

Getting a week off of school to gather with friends as you stand along barricades that line the parade routes, screaming “throw me something mister!” at random people in striking costumes. Otherwise known as the best, and free party you’ll ever experience that often attracts lots of tourists!