By Bianca B

Students all throughout WLC celebrated the traditional holiday of Mardi Gras on Tuesday, February 28.

Mardi Gras marks the start of Lent and comes the day before Ash Wednesday. Lent is a time where people with Christian religious backgrounds choose something to give up for a total of six weeks. Social media and candy are both popular things to give up during this time.

For senior Shannon Creed, Mardi Gras means tradition and family. She is reminded of New Orleans when it comes to Mardi Gras. “As a tradition, my family throws beads off our balcony as they would in New Orleans. Another thing we do to celebrate is eat pączki’s,” said Creed.

Mardi Gras allows the indulgence in sweets and other vices. For many, this holiday is considered a last hurrah before Lent. Senior Celeste Nafso explained what she has given up for Lent and why. “I have chosen to give up chips for the six weeks because I tend to eat a lot of them and I know it is not good for me. I hope that this change in diet will allow me to get into the habit of cutting down on junk food more,” said Nafso.
Sophomore Savanna Shaman gave her thoughts on what Mardi Gras is. She talks about her Lent and traditions. “For me, Mardi Gras it means the day before Ash Wednesday, although, I don’t celebrate this holiday. I have decided to give up foods such as bread and meat. Every Sunday, we get to break the rules and and eat what we’ve given up, so I am looking forward to that,” said Shaman.