Mardi Gras is a loud celebration of excess and frivolity, but it has its basis in a time of self sacrifice and solemnity.
Mardi Gras is also known by other names, according to The Rev. Anthony MacWhinnie of St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church in Navarre.
“Most folks know it is associated with the beginning of Lent, but it actually has pagan roots in the Saturnalia and Bacchanalia festivals celebrated at similar times of the year. They were co-opted by the Christian church and renamed Shrove Tuesday, which most folks know as Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras,” MacWhinnie said.

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