2/12 Mardi Gras - a crazy time of wild partying and lots of music.
The Big Apple becomes the Big Easy with Mardi Gras galas in all boroughs New York Daily News - February 11, 2013
Investigators worked early Monday to find suspects in a weekend shooting that wounded four on Bourbon Street during the countdown to Mardi Gras, while many revelers went on with their partying despite the violence.
Carnival is a festive season which occurs immediately before Lent (2/13/2013); the main events are usually in February. Carnival typically involves a public celebration or parade combining some elements of a circus, mask and public street party. People often dress up or masquerade during the celebrations, which mark an overturning of daily life. Carnival is traditionally held in areas with a large Catholic and, to a lesser extent, Eastern Orthodox makeup. Protestant areas usually do not have Carnival celebrations or have modified traditions, such as the Danish Carnival or other Shrove Tuesday events. Conversely, the Philippines a predominantly Roman Catholic country does not have Carnival celebrations as they are more culturally influenced by neighboring Asian nations, which do not have Carnival celebrations.
Carnival season around the world Baltimore Sun - February 10, 2013
20 things you need to know about Carnival Mirror.co.uk - February 10, 2013
