Mardi Gras – February 12th

Feb 5, 2013

Mardi Gras 2013

Mardi Gras is the French name for Fat Tuesday. Why is it fat? The name comes from the tradition of slaughtering and feasting upon a fattened calf on the last day of Carnival (French carne vale – or farewell to the meat). It marks the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of Lent, which is usually observed by giving up something we love – like chocolate, or cigarettes, or gambling – as penance for our sins. Maybe that’s why February 11th was chosen for BC Family Day – it gives us a chance to celebrate before we have to give up fun for a month!