Les Dates de Mardi Gras (Mardi Gras Dates) Mardi Gras takes place 46 days before Easter (le Pâques) — that is, sometime between February 3 and March 9.Mardi Gras is the day before Lent (le carême), which begins on Ash Wednesday (le mercredi des Cendres). However, today, much of what you might hear that sounds French is actually known as Cajun-French. Here's a look at the five most popular French words and sayings you'll hear while exploring NOLA. Mardi Gras. If you’re visiting New Orleans, chances are you’ve heard of Mardi Gras, or, in English, Fat Tuesday. Lundi Gras. French for Fat Monday, Lundi Gras is the day before Mardi Gras. It was celebrated from 1874 to 1917 with Rex’s arrival by steamboat. In 1987, the custom was revived and now Lundi Gras includes parades, concerts and Carnival activities staged by both Rex and Zulu. Rex. One of the oldest krewes still parading. Rex rolls on Fat Tuesday. In 2023, Mardi gras is 21 February; in 2024, it will be 13 February.* The period leading up to Mardi Gras is called Carnaval , and the several-week festival is celebrated in New Orleans, Nice , Guadeloupe, and many other francophone (and non-francophone) cities, regions, and countries. If you are new to Mardi Gras, you'll need to know the lingo. Here is a list of common Carnival terms. Glossary of Mardi Gras Terms. Ball: a Mardi Gras ball is a special event parades host prior to rolling. They are similar to galas and often feature presentations of the royal court, dancing and costumes. Bacchus: a parade that rolls the Sunday Mardi Gras sous la pluie, l’hiver s’enfuit. English translation: Mardi Gras in the rain, winter is running away. 10. Quand Mardi Gras est là alors enlevez vos balances et faites vos crêpres. English translation: When Mardi Gras is here, take out your scales and make your pancakes. 11. Joyeux Mardi Gras ! English translation: Happy Mardi However, when it comes to saying “Happy Mardi Gras” in French, the phrases we have covered are commonly used and understood throughout various regions. Remember, Mardi Gras is a time of joy, celebration, and indulgence. Whether you’re in France, Canada, or Louisiana, spread the festive spirit by wishing others a happy Mardi Gras in French. Further your French - Allez plus Loin Expressions with ‘gras’ Mardi Gras . Fat Tuesday, Shrove Tuesday; discuter le bout de gras . to schmooze; du foie gras . foie gras; faire gras . to eat meat; faire la grasse matinée . to sleep in . Today’s French. Mot du Jour . Tutorials. Memberships . Donate. Go to Course - Mardi-Gras. A guide to traditional words, terms and French vocabulary to celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans. below are a list of commonly used Mardi Gras terms that will have you celebrating like a local: Mardi Gras is a time to let loose and have fun. revelers often use catchphrases and slogans to sum up the holiday’s carefree spirit. Some popular Mardi Gras sayings include “Laissez les bons temps rouler!” ( Let the good times roll!), ” Mardi Gras c’est magnifique!” ( Mardi Gras is magnificent!), and “Mardi Gras! Gotta love it!” Best known for its association with Mardi Gras, krewe is an old English spelling for the word “crew.” The word, which is thought to have been coined in the early nineteenth century, refers to a parading club or organization that strolls around New Orleans during carnival season aboard a uniquely designed float. Mardi Gras, meaning “Fat Tuesday” in French, is one of the most vibrant celebrations in France. Marking the culmination of the Carnival season, it’s a time for indulgence, creativity, and community spirit. Let’s dive into its origins, folklore, modern festivities, and culinary delights. The origins of Mardi Gras “Mardi” is the French word for Tuesday, and “gras” translates to fat. In France, the day before Ash Wednesday came to be called “Fat Tuesday,” or Mardi Gras, because, in the days leading up to Lent, people would binge on all the rich, fatty foods they would have to give up for fasting. Members privately put on the balls and parades that make up Mardi Gras. Discover the many faces of Mardi Gras with our list of New Orleans Krewes. Lagniappe. A little something extra (pronounced LAN-yap). This could be a free dessert at the restaurant or a treat on the pillow at your hotel. Laissez les bons temps rouler Finding fun Mardi Gras activities for French class that also promote proficiency can be tricky. Since Mardi Gras for 2022 is March 1st this year, us French teachers need to get crackin’ on classroom activities to celebrate this raucous Francophone tradition! What Day is Mardi Gras? Mardi Gras always falls on Fat Tuesday, so you can predict Signaling the end of the Carnival season, which climaxes on Mardi Gras, Lent lasts for 40 days until Easter (not counting Sundays). Because the day before Ash Wednesday was traditionally one of feasting, as symbolized by the Boeuf Gras, it came to be known as Fat Tuesday or, as the French would say, Mardi Gras. Baby Doll This isn’t the first time I’ve blogged about Mardi Gras. Back in 2015, I shared My Favorite #Authres (and More!) for Mardi Gras & Carnaval. In 2021, I shared Mardi Gras 2021 in French Class, during the crazy covid year, and then followed it up with Reflections on Our Virtual Mardi Gras Celebration. This year I am sharing an updated curation A useful list of French vocabulary related to celebrating Shrove Tuesday carnival in France. Brush up on Mardi Gras vocabulary in French with Kwiziq F The spirit of Mardi Gras is alive and well: the love of life (joie de vivre), the enjoyment of music, food (especially king cake!) and a great drink, plus, yes, the beads are all still here. And Celebrate Mardi Gras with these festive phrases and let the good times roll! Mardi gras traditions and customs. Mardi Gras, also known as “Fat Tuesday,” is a vibrant and colorful celebration that takes place in many parts of the world.
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