There are so many reasons to love Louisiana and the joie de vivre our state is known for. Nothing brings out that “joy of being alive” quite like Mardi Gras season. It has parties, it has food, it has friends, it has families, and it will totally burn you out if you’re not careful. That’s why Louisiana residents have to plan for Mardi Gras every year, and next year you might want to add some purple green and gold to your Christmas decor.
How is the date of Mardi Gras determined?
I’m sure you are aware of the connection between Mardi Gras and Easter. Shrove Tuesday is always the day before Ash Wednesday. Ash Wednesday is always 46 days before Easter Sunday. This all makes perfect sense, but why does the Easter holiday fluctuate to different dates each year?
How is the date of Easter determined each year?
Easter Sunday is the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, also known as the first day of spring. This year, 2023, the first day of spring is March 20th. The next full moon following the vernal equinox will occur on April 6th. Her name is Luna Rosa. The first Sunday following the full moon on April 6 is April 9, and if you check your calendar it’s Easter Sunday this year.
What are the dates of Shrove Tuesday and Easter Sunday in 2024?
Since you know the formula, we’ll give you the data and figure it out together. The vernal equinox will take place in our parts of the world on March 19th. The first full moon after that date is the Worm Moon and March 25th. This means that Easter Sunday in 2024 will be March 31st. It is early.
And if you consider going to Mardi Gras you have to count back 46 days, there will be just the combination of holidays taking place in mid-February next year. If you’re not good at math, Mardi Gras 2024 will be February 13th or the day before Valentine’s Day or just 44 days after New Year’s.
Christmas and Mardi Gras will overlap in 2024.
We understand that Mardi Gras season does not technically start until January 6th. However, Mardi Gras crews will be busy organizing their dances and other krewe activities in that very short amount of time between Epiphany and Ash Wednesday. Heck, you’ll only have 25 days in January and another 13 in February to organize all the parties and celebrations. But I think we can do it.
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