Mardi Gras

New Orleans, LA
Mardi Gras

This celebration dates back to Europe during the middle Ages. When the French came to America so did the Mardi Gras. French explorer, Iberville, came to this area on March 3, 1699. Iberville proclaimed his campsite “Mardi Gras Point” in honor of the French holiday. The city of New Orleans has been celebrating this tradition since 1837. This French term literally means “Fat Tuesday”. This is the day before Christians honor “Lent”, a time to celebrate Jesus through one’s own personal sacrifice, i.e. food. At one time, the wearing of masks was prohibited. After my last visit to New Orleans, I do not believe anything is prohibited! Although Mardi Gras is celebrated in other cities around the world, there are no others like New Orleans Mardi Gras.

Congrats - SAINTS!

Groundhog History

Punxsutawney, PA
Groundhog Day

The area was full of these little critters and on February 2, 1886, the local newspaper declared it “Groundhog Day” and this community has been celebrating the event ever since. The weather forecasting by the groundhog dates back to an Old Dutch legend. W.O. Smith, owner of the local newspaper and a U.S. Congressman, kept the event alive. Through radio and television, the town and the event have become famous throughout the world!