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February 13 – Fun Fact for Today for Kids

Today, we’re diving into the vibrant and colorful world of Mardi Gras, celebrated on February 13 this year! Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is a day of festivity, parades, and indulging in delicious foods before the start of Lent. It’s a tradition that spans across many cultures and countries, bringing people together in a grand celebration of life, music, and food. At the end of this introduction, make sure to explore more fascinating facts and activities by visiting Fact of the Day for Kids here.

FIVE FUN FACTS ABOUT FEBRUARY 13

  1. Mardi Gras dates back thousands of years to pagan spring and fertility rites.
  2. The official colors of Mardi Gras are purple (justice), gold (power), and green (faith).
  3. In New Orleans, which hosts one of the most famous Mardi Gras celebrations, krewes (social groups) organize parades and balls.
  4. King Cake, a traditional Mardi Gras dessert, contains a hidden plastic baby, and the person who finds it is expected to host next year’s King Cake party.
  5. Mardi Gras is celebrated around the world, with famous festivities in Rio de Janeiro, Venice, and Nice, in addition to New Orleans.

MORE FUN STUFF FOR MARDI GRAS

Here are more fun ideas to help keep the kids entertained:

ACTIVITY IDEAS TO CELEBRATE FEBRUARY 13

Mardi Gras offers a perfect opportunity for fun, learning, and creativity in the classroom. Here are five activities to get students engaged:

  • Create your own Mardi Gras masks using paper plates, feathers, sequins, and beads.
  • Make a King Cake with a hidden surprise inside.
  • Learn and teach a simple Cajun dance to enjoy with classmates.
  • Craft Mardi Gras parade floats from shoeboxes and decorate them with bright colors and themes.
  • Write a short story or poem about a Mardi Gras parade adventure.

QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT FOR FEBRUARY 13

Mardi Gras is more than just a party; it’s a cultural phenomenon with deep roots and significant meanings. Consider these questions:

  • Why do you think Mardi Gras is celebrated before Lent?
  • How do the colors of Mardi Gras reflect its spirit?
  • Why is sharing food such as King Cake an important tradition?
  • How do Mardi Gras celebrations differ around the world?
  • What can we learn from the inclusivity and community spirit of Mardi Gras?

WOULD YOU RATHER QUESTIONS FOR FEBRUARY 13

Here are five questions to spark conversation. Would you rather…

  • Attend a Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans or celebrate in Venice?
  • Find the hidden baby in a King Cake or be the one to throw beads in a parade?
  • Wear a costume of bright feathers or a mask of sparkling jewels?
  • Dance in a street parade or watch from a balcony?
  • Eat traditional Cajun food or try sweets from a Mardi Gras celebration?

Check out yesterday’s fun fact of the day!