The French name Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday, from the custom of using all the fats in the home before Lent in preparation for fasting and abstinence. That is not necessarily what we first think of when we hear Mardi Gras. That would be bright colors of purple, green, and gold, lavish costumes, and intricate masks. The parades and parties, losing your inhibitions and stepping out of your comfort zone. Let’s not forget the music!