The season, which represents a time of celebration before Christian Lent, lasts until Fat Tuesday. Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras Day, is March 4, 2025. However between those dates of January 6 and March 4 there are all sorts of activities to enjoy and do. There will still be parades, king cake and celebrations within the community itself. 1857 was the first ball, there are hosts of the parades, the first being Comus. It was the second mardi gras where it was given the famous purple, green and gold coloring. All 3 united mean "King". Individually green is faith, purple is justice, and gold is power. At first, Mardi Gras was a locals only type of event. Typically only the community would know of the event and tradition. However, in 1872 the city of New Orleans decided to promote tourism through the event in order to help raise money for the community.