Overview
- Mardi Gras, rooted in ancient traditions and Christian observance, peaks on March 4, marking the day before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent.
- New Orleans remains the epicenter of Mardi Gras celebrations, featuring parades, floats, and music from krewes like Zulu and Rex on Fat Tuesday.
- San Francisco Bay Area offers diverse Mardi Gras events, including parades, live music, and cultural celebrations in neighborhoods like North Beach and the Mission District.
- Other U.S. cities, such as Oakland, Napa, and Petaluma, host their own unique Mardi Gras events, blending local traditions with New Orleans-inspired festivities.
- Mardi Gras' global reach is celebrated in cities worldwide, reflecting its rich history and cultural significance stemming from French and Catholic influences.