Mardi Gras began as a Christian holiday. It has since evolved into a popular cultural phenomenon. Mardi Gras dates back thousands of years to pagan tradition and fertility rituals. The events, which are also known as Carnival in several Latin countries, is celebrated in many countries around the world, mainly those with large Roman Catholic populations. It is celebrated the day before Lent begins. Brazil, Venice and New Orleans host some of the holiday’s most famous public festivities, drawing thousands of tourists every year. Mardi Gras dates back thousands of years to the almost riotous and vulgar Roman festivals of Lupercalia and
