What Is Mardi Gras and When Is Fat Tuesday
Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, is the final day of the Carnival season before Lent, marked by parades, parties, and rich traditions. In 2017, Fat Tuesday fell on February 28, determined by the date of Easter. The Carnival season that year began on January 6, 2017, with many parades and events running in the weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday across cities such as New Orleans, Mobile, and other Gulf Coast communities. Moved by this structure, the following sections detail the 2017 calendar, parade routes, and customs.
Key Dates and Parade Schedule for 2017
The 2017 Mardi Gras season followed the liturgical calendar, with Fat Tuesday on February 28. Parades took place on select days from mid-January through February, peaking during the two weeks before Fat Tuesday. Below is a table summarizing major event types, approximate timing, and their significance.
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| January 6, 2017 | Krewe Season Start | Marks the beginning of official parade season |
| Weeks of February 2017 | Regular Parades | A series of parades with themed floats and throws |
| February 28, 2017 | Fat Tuesday | The main celebration before the start of Lent |
Major Parades and Itineraries
In New Orleans, multiple krewes produced parades along established routes, often featuring signature throws and elaborately designed floats. Notable parades included those of the Krewe of Endymion, which typically held a large Saturday parade, and other long-standing organizations presenting processions on various evenings. For attendees, reviewing parade maps and schedules was essential to navigate routes, secure viewing locations, and plan travel around street closures.
Parade Route Planning and Street Closures
Parade routes in 2017 generally followed traditional streets in the French Quarter, Garden District, and surrounding neighborhoods. Map details and exact timings were published by each krewe, with routes sometimes adjusted for city guidelines. Visitors benefited from checking updates on official city sites and krewe pages. Key practices included arriving early, limiting valuables, and using public transit or rideshares where available.
Traditions, Customs, and Cultural Context
Mardi Gras 2017 reflected longstanding customs, including masked balls, decorated floats, and community-specific rituals. In New Orleans, the city’s unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences shaped music, cuisine, and celebration styles. Elsewhere, such as Mobile, Alabama, early American Mardi Gras traditions highlighted regional differences while maintaining the season’s spirit of festivity before Lenten reflection.
Throws, Costumes, and Music
Throws like beads, doubloons, and cups were central to the parade experience, with designs often tied to specific krewes. Costuming ranged from elaborate masked ensembles to creative personal attire, while live bands and brass performances filled the streets. These elements combined to create a distinctive festive atmosphere that defined Mardi Gras 2017 for residents and visitors.
Travel, Safety, and Practical Tips
Attending Mardi Gras in 2017 required planning for crowded conditions, variable weather, and neighborhood events. Travelers booked accommodations well in advance and reviewed transportation options, including public transit and event shuttles. Safety measures emphasized staying aware of surroundings, keeping children close, and following official guidance on parade routes and street closures.
- Check parade schedules and route maps in advance
- Arrive early to secure prime viewing spots
- Use public transit or rideshare services when possible
- Limit valuables and keep personal items secure
- Stay hydrated and be mindful of weather conditions
Modern Celebrations and Community Impact
Mardi Gras 2017 demonstrated the holiday’s ongoing role as a major cultural and economic event, drawing large crowds and supporting local businesses. Community organizations, krewes, and city services worked together to manage logistics, preserve traditions, and ensure inclusive participation. The day’s events highlighted the blend of festivity, artistry, and civic coordination that characterizes Mardi Gras in the 21st century.