The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced to medieval Europe, passing through Rome and Venice in the 17th and 18th centuries to the French House of the Bourbons. From here, the traditional revelry of "Boeuf Gras," or fatted calf, followed France to her colonies. Learn more here.
New Orleans is not the only place to celebrate Mardi Gras. There are plenty of celebrations right here in Texas. Even better, they are not all on the same day, so you can enjoy the party several weeks in a row.
Mardi Gras
January 27 Jefferson
February 1 – 3 Bandera
February 8 – 10 Nocona
February 12 – 13 Galveston
March 2 Possum Kingdom