Hmm. Street, an insider's guide to New Orleans. Beyond Bourbon Street is the podcast where we explore the food,

music, culture, places, and people that make New Orleans unique. Whether you are planning a trip,

living in New Orleans, or simply wanting a taste of the Crescent City from wherever you are,

you've come to the right place.

And now, your host, Mark Bologna.

Hey everyone, this is Mark.

Hey everyone, this is Mark.

Thanks for tuning in to episode 3.

It's been great to hear for many of you who have listened to the first couple of shows.

A special thanks to those of you who have taken the time to leave a rating on iTunes,

including CF Barker, who provided the show's first rating.

Thanks, Christine, I really appreciate it.

Well, it's carnival time in New Orleans, a season of celebration that begins on 12th

night and culminates with Mardi Gras.

In today's show, we're going to take a journey through the history of Carnival and 12th night in New Orleans.

We'll explore the root of the traditions and learn how they influence the celebrations we enjoy today.

Along the way, we'll discuss King Cakes, Carnival Balls, and Parades.

We'll finish our discussion by answering the question of how the date of Mardi Gras is determined.

Today's show will focus on the history and the what.

Our next show will be a more practical guide, a how to do Carnival and Mardi Gras, if you will. So let's get started.

Carnival season begins on 12 night at the conclusion of the 12 days of Christmas

on January 6th. That day is also known as the Feast of the Epiphany and as King's Day. My kids refer to it as King Cake Day, but we'll get to that in a bit. In Christian traditions, it marks the day the magi or three wise men visited the Christ

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