What is Fat Tuesday and Is It Part of Mardi Gras?

Fat Tuesday may be a new term for you. This day has a long history in Christianity, and its traditions are wrapped up in both Lent and celebrations that predate Christianity. For that reason, Christians need to understand Fat Tuesday and some of its history.Where is Fat Tuesday in the Lenten Calendar?Fat Tuesday is more appropriately known as Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. Kelly Givens explains that significance in her Christianity.com article “What Is Ash Wednesday?”:“Each year, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent and is always 46 days before Easter Sunday. Lent is a 40-day season (not counting Sundays) marked by repentance, fasting, reflection, and ultimately celebration. The 40-day period represents Christ’s time of temptation in the wilderness, where he fasted and where Satan tempted him. Lent asks believers to set aside a time each year for similar fasting, marking an intentional season of focus on Christ’s life, ministry, sacrifice, and resurrection.”Ash Wedn...