Mardi Gras or Carnival

[LauraMc]

In discussing last night's episode of Treme with my co-workers, one said he never heard anyone call Mardi Gras "Carnival". He grew up in Metairie. Another co-worker who grew up on the Westbank said he's only heard out-of-towners say it. Since I moved here 22 years ago, I have heard it called Carnival quite often. I started out in the lower Garden District with other transplants who had been here for years so maybe that's why I heard it. But even my in-laws who grew up in Old Jeff say it. So which do you use?

[bam bam]

Arthur Hardy is the only person I know who uses the term Carnival.

[Suzy Wong]

(have never seen treme, that said)

Both sets of grandparents and my parents (natives and lifelong residents of Orleans Parish) always said/say Carnival never Mardi Gras. It's an old school term....

[Jeeves]

I've always felt that Mardi Gras refers to the day, Fat Tuesday and the entire season leading up to Lent is Carnival.

[Schuarta]

Definition:

Carnival is a festive season which occurs the immediately before Lent. The main events are usually during February. Carnival typically involves a public parade or celibration, combining some elements of a circus, mask and public street party. People often dress up or masquarade during the celebrations, which mark an overturning of daily life.

...which seems in complete agreement with Jeeves above.

[EatinAintCheatin]

Ask yourself one question:

What kind of parade do you go see in New Orleans?

The answer: A Mardi Gras Parade....

[mojo]

My Mom, an uptown native, used the term "Carnival" for all of the period (and events, like balls and parades) from Twelfth Night to Mardi Gras, which she called Carnival Day.

I use both terms, depending on the situation.

[Oyster]

C'mon maannn....where ya'll from, Mars???

Throw the freakin baby out da window, it's Carnival Time!!!!

Link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccu2_MRMF5Y

Carnival is the season, Mardi Gras is the day.

[Suzy Wong]

Only bad movies;) or people who aren't from New Orleans say Fat Tuesday (for Mardi Gras day) HA.....

[Oyster]

Only bad movies;) or people who aren't from New Orleans say Fat Tuesday (for Mardi Gras day) HA.....

And...N'awlins...