Zappy Mardi Gras! Mardi Gras (French for Fat Tuesday) is the climax of the colorful Carnival season where street parades and hundreds of private balls are staged. More than $1 billion is spent each year on the festivities, as nearly a million visitors and locals cram the streets to enjoy the family-oriented celebration. Mardi Gras is always scheduled 47 days before Easter and can occur on any Tuesday from February 3 - March 9. Enjoy great tasting anywhere in the USA!