What is Mardi Gras all about?
By migsmartinez
@migsmartinez (1293)
Philippines
February 24, 2009 7:54am CST
Hi there! I have a few questions about Mardi Gras. I always hear about the carnivals and the celebrations that happen during Mardi Gras but I've never understood what it's all about. I've heard that it's supposed to be some kind of last hoorah before the season of Lent. Is that really what it is about? I've never been to one and I'd like to know more about the celebration.
Another thing, I heard on the radio that people flash other people for food during the celebration. Is that true?
I'd like to hear more about the things that happen during Mardi Gras and any experiences of people who have gone or who have some information about it.
Thanks!
3 responses
@oyenkai (4394)
• Philippines
25 Feb 09
Based on what I've read on New Orlean's celebration of Mardi Gras - the flashing is mostly either for fun or in order to obtain the Mardi Gras beads (accessories that the people on the float either throw to the audience or someone on the street gives away when you seem like an interesting person - interesting loosely translates to if you have good boobs I presume). Also the flashing is technically illegal but the police let it go so that they could concentrate on guarding against more serious crimes - theft, violence, etc.
1 person likes this
@migsmartinez (1293)
• Philippines
25 Feb 09
So that's why they flash... Do men also flash to get stuff? I still don't see the whole point of Mardi Gras.
@oyenkai (4394)
• Philippines
25 Feb 09
yeah, some guys do flash.
It originated from a pagan festivity so you really wouldn't understand it if you base it on a Catholic context of "day before Ash Wednesday" - because thinking about it, why would you feast when you're really supposed to be sacrificing?
In this modern celebration, I think you should just give up putting meaning into it. It's a chance for everyone to go crazy amidst the colorful parades and overflowing food especially on the end as a 5-day weekend.
It's like asking why do men have strippers on their bachelor parties? There's no acceptable logical answer to that.
And why do people consider "getting drunk" as fun?
There are things that some people enjoy and others find
@caver1 (1762)
• United States
24 Feb 09
Fat Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. I think the way this day is celebrated is different depending on what area of the country you are in. It is a day to indulge in whatever you have chosen to give up for Lent. So if you are giving up meat for Lent, you might have a big meal and eat lots of meat. Not every Mardi Gras celebration involves flashing and wild parties.
@syankee525 (6261)
• United States
24 Feb 09
don't feel bad me either. excpet you get alot and lots of people cram in the streets and girls flash you thier boobies at you for a necklace. humm ok that alone makes it worth it.. lol.
but i seen it on tv and all the people there is no way i would go there and deal with all those people
