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Germany's biggest individual lottery winner had no time to celebrate after becoming $27 million richer because he was too worried about being late for work.

Mardi Gras Season in New Orleans

Source:America's Library
Level: Pre-Intermediate

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What kinds of things would you expect to see at a parade?

Have you ever heard the expression "Fat Tuesday?"

Mardi Gras Season in New Orleans

Do you celebrate Fat Tuesday? If you live in New Orleans, Louisiana, or any place else along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, you probably do.

Every year, the people of New Orleans celebrate Mardi Gras, which is French for "Fat Tuesday." This holiday is the day before Ash Wednesday, and it begins a season of fasting, called Lent, for many Christians leading up to Easter Sunday. It's called Fat Tuesday because it's the last day that many people eat meat and fatty foods before Lent begins.

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When you have finished reading, return to this page and answer the questions below.

Post-Reading Questions

How often is the celebration of Mardi Gras held?
a. every month
b. once a week
c. every season
d. once a year
Mardi Gras is the day before
a. Easter Sunday
b. Ash Wednesday
c. Fat Tuesday
d. Rainy Monday

True or False?
Fat Tuesday in New Orleans is a time of merry-making and festivity.
The identities of the king and queen are kept secret until the night of the ball (big dance).