what day is mardi gras on in 2025

2 min read 01-12-2024

Mardi Gras, also known as Shrove Tuesday, is a day of celebration that marks the beginning of Lent for many Christians. But for many more, it's a vibrant festival filled with parades, costumes, and delicious food! So, what day is Mardi Gras in 2025? Mark your calendars: Mardi Gras in 2025 falls on Tuesday, March 4th.

Understanding the Mardi Gras Date

The date of Mardi Gras changes each year because it's tied to the date of Easter. Mardi Gras always falls on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, which is the first day of Lent. Since Easter's date varies based on the lunar calendar, so does Mardi Gras.

How is the Mardi Gras date calculated?

The calculation is a bit complex, but here's the gist:

Easter Sunday: Easter is the first Sunday after the Paschal Full Moon, which is the first full moon after the spring equinox.
Ash Wednesday: Ash Wednesday is the Wednesday following the first Sunday of Lent, which is 46 days before Easter Sunday.
Mardi Gras (Shrove Tuesday): Mardi Gras is the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.

More Than Just One Day: The Mardi Gras Season

While Mardi Gras itself is just one day, the celebrations often span several weeks, known as Carnival season. This period is packed with parades, balls, and other festive events leading up to the big day. The exact dates of Carnival season vary by location, but generally, the festivities kick off several weeks before Mardi Gras.

Key Dates in the Mardi Gras Season (Generally):

Twelfth Night (Epiphany): January 6th – marks the traditional start of Carnival season in some areas.
L'Épiphanie (King Cake Reveal): The eating of King Cake traditionally begins during this time.
Mardi Gras Day: The culmination of the Carnival celebrations.
Ash Wednesday: The day after Mardi Gras, marking the beginning of Lent.

Where to Celebrate Mardi Gras in 2025

New Orleans, Louisiana, is arguably the most famous place to experience Mardi Gras. However, many other cities around the world hold Mardi Gras celebrations. If you're planning a trip, research the specific location's Carnival schedule well in advance, as events can book up quickly!

Popular Mardi Gras Destinations:

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA: The quintessential Mardi Gras experience.
Mobile, Alabama, USA: Claims to have the oldest Mardi Gras celebrations in the US.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Celebrates Carnival with massive street parties.
Nice, France: Known for its extravagant flower parades.
Venice, Italy: Features masked balls and elaborate costumes.

Planning Your 2025 Mardi Gras Celebration

Whether you're a seasoned Mardi Gras attendee or a first-timer, planning ahead is key. Here are some tips:

Book accommodations and flights early: Especially if traveling to New Orleans.
Research parade routes and schedules: Many parades happen simultaneously, so planning your viewing spots is crucial.
Consider purchasing beads and throws in advance: You can find them online or at local shops before the rush.
Dress comfortably: You'll likely be on your feet for hours!
Stay hydrated: It can get very crowded and hot.
Be aware of your surroundings: Large crowds can be overwhelming.

Remember, Mardi Gras 2025 is on Tuesday, March 4th. Start planning your celebration now! Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)