Nonetheless, the use of ash-as in soot or the residue left after burning-has been used in different cultures and religions throughout time. That said, ash, as in the sacred ash tree, Yggdrasil, is heavily associated with Norse traditions. This theory is fun to consider, but ultimately, it is inconclusive. It’s also said that it took place on Wednesdays, the day named after the god. They maintain ashes were placed above one’s brow to ensure the protection of the Norse god, Odin. While the evidence is scarce, some unverified sources believe ash was used in Norse pagan traditions. One common tale circulating the interwebs is that the origins of this practice stemmed from Norse mythology. Per the Catholic News Service, ashes used on Ash Wednesday typically come from palms burned during Palm Sunday of the previous year, and this symbolizes the fleeting nature of life. In Christian tradition, the practice of marking the forehead with ashes is a symbol of repentance and mourning. In Christianity, the carnival concludes on Fat Tuesday, which is then followed by Ash Wednesday. In my own practice, I often associate these colors with healing, spirituality, and prosperity, respectively. It’s no wonder New Orleans continues to attract millions of tourists every year, eager to participate in this glorious festival.ĭue to this, the official Mardi Gras colors have the following associations: green represents faith, purple represents justice, and gold represents power. Receiving the slice with the baby inside is thought to be a sign of good fortune. Each king cake has a singular plastic baby inside. These cakes are like coffee cake/cinnamon roll hybrids topped with frosting and covered in purple, green, and gold sugar. New Orleans offers plenty of these delicious treats during Mardi Gras. King Cakes are another staple as they are a signature dish of the celebration. Not only are they beautiful, but they are useful for maintaining anonymity and lowering inhibitions. Masquerade masks are commonplace during the festivities. In modern times, it is now celebrated with parades, parties, and other festivities. Both cities throw a decadent bash in honor of the carnival, but New Orleans seems to have cornered the market for being the go-to destination for Mardi Gras. Regardless, it makes sense that the modern celebration of Mardi Gras is strongly associated with New Orleans, but we can’t forget Mobile. History’s article also states, “The first American Mardi Gras took place on March 3, 1699, when French explorers Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville and Sieur de Bienville landed near present-day New Orleans, Louisiana.” Emphasis on near because whether the festivities originated in Mobile or New Orleans can be a hot debate. In fact, it was French settlers who first introduced Mardi Gras to the New World. Per the History article “ Mardi Gras ,” the term Mardi Gras is French in origin and translates to “Fat Tuesday.” Many celebrate this holiday, particularly those with strong French or Catholic traditions. However, this cannot be said definitively. It is often believed by some that in medieval Europe, Christians merged the earlier pagan traditions into what became known as the Carnival. In ancient Rome, the celebration of Lupercalia occurred mid-February and was a festival of feasting, drinking, and - you guessed it - debauchery. Despite modern-day Mardi Gras being a part of various Christian traditions, some believe the origins of Mardi Gras predate Christianity and stem from pagan celebrations of spring and fertility.
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