Travelers who want to experience Mardi Gras should visit before Fat Tuesday. Still, travelers can find lively nightlife, incredible music, delicious food and plenty to do in the city all year.

The celebration is rooted in the traditions of various cultures. “Mardi Gras,” which is French for "Fat Tuesday," marks the culmination of festivities before the solemn season of Lent.

Before the big day – or week for our New Orleans friends – here’s everything you need to know about Mardi Gras, including dates, the meaning of the holiday, traditions and more.

2024 Mardi Gras NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 12: The King of Proteus, whose identity is never revealed to the public, leads his krewe's 2024 parade along the traditional Uptown parade route ...

The celebration of Mardi Gras, also known as 'Fat Tuesday,' occurs every year on the day before Ash Wednesday. While countries all over the world take part in the celebration, New Orleans is ...

The party of the year is here. Mardi Gras, an annual carnival celebrated with exuberance and cultural richness, is upon us. The celebration is rooted in the traditions of various cultures ...

The party of the year is here. Mardi Gras, an annual carnival celebrated with exuberance and cultural richness, is upon us. The celebration is rooted in the traditions of various cultures ...