Mardi Gras: France’s Carnival Extravaganza

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 Gras traces its roots to ancient Roman festivals like Saturnalia, which involved feasting and revelry. With the advent of Christianity, these traditions were adapted into Carnival—a period of indulgence before the austerity of Lent. Mardi Gras specifically refers to the day before Ash Wednesday, when people would use up rich ingredients like eggs, butter, and sugar. 

In medieval France, Mardi Gras became a significant part of the Carnival season, characterized by masked balls, parades, and feasting. The name “Fat Tuesday” reflects the tradition of eating richly before the 40-day fast of Lent – in French, le Carême.

This year, Mardi Gras falls on March 4th 2025.

Modern-day celebrations 

Today, Mardi Gras is synonymous with vibrant public festivities. Cities like Nice and Dunkirk host some of the most famous Carnival celebrations in France. The streets come alive with parades featuring elaborate floats, costumed participants, and live music. Masks and disguises add a playful, theatrical element, allowing participants to let loose and embrace the spirit of revelry. 

Food plays a central role in Mardi Gras celebrations. Tables are laden with crêpes, waffles, beignets, and other indulgent treats. Families and friends gather to enjoy these delights, continuing the tradition of using up rich ingredients before Lent. Children often dress up for school parades, adding to the festive atmosphere. 

How to celebrate Mardi Gras at home in the French way?

• Make crêpes and do a flipping contest

In France, Mardi Gras is often associated with eating crêpes, similar to Chandeleur. You can make a batch of sweet or savory crêpes and enjoy them with classic toppings like sugar and lemon, chocolate, jam or caramel. A fun tradition is flipping crêpes while holding a coin in your other hand for good luck and prosperity. See who can flip the perfect crêpe without dropping it!

• Make carnivak ‘beignets’

Mardi Gras is also known for its delicious fried pastries, such as bugnes (Lyon), merveilles (Southwest), or chichis (Provence). These deep-fried treats are a must for a traditional French celebration.

• Organise a masked bal

In true French carnival style, host a bal masqué (masked ball) at home. Encourage guests (or family members) to wear Venetian-style masks or colorful costumes inspired by the famous Carnaval de Nice.

• Decorate your home in bright colours

Bring the festive spirit home with decorations in the traditional purple, green, and gold colors of Mardi Gras. Add strings of beads, feathers, and confetti for a true carnival atmosphere.

• Play music, sing and dance

Create a carnaval playlist with lively French songs and classics from New Orleans jazz to get in the spirit. Popular carnival tunes from Dunkirk, like La Cantate à Jean Bart, can add an authentic touch.

• Watch a carnival parade online

Many French carnivals, such as Nice, are streamed online. Watching a parade from the comfort of your home can make you feel part of the action.