The tradition of practicing Mardi Gras is popular in region’s with heavy French and Spanish influence, such as New Orleans and much of South America. The name literally translates to Fat Tuesday and is celebrated as a last day of indulgence before the deprivation of pleasures that coincide with observing the forty days of Lent. Setting aside a day to completely indulge in whatever sinful or gluttonous activity one wants is directly in conflict with the teachings of Puritanism. Even the spirit and look of Mardi Gras is in discord with Puritan values. Puritans are very reserved in their demeanor and very plain in the way they dress. Mardi Gras on the other hand is full of loud music, bright flashing colors, and extravagant (often revealing) clothing. With the sermons of people like Edwards and Mather, the Puritans saw themselves as people ruled by an angry and wrathful God, who would cast them into hell for the slightest transgression. A people who saw themselves as dangling over the fires of hell, like the Puritans would never set aside an entire day much less an entire week to drinking and partying.
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