Mardi Gras marks the end of the Carnival season which is a period observed by many Roman Catholics. It starts at Epiphany on January 6 and ends on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras is the last day before lent, which is a solemn period observed by prayer, repentance, fasting, and moderation. It is often associated with lavish Carnival-like celebrations. Mardi Gras has been celebrated in the U.S since 1699. The first parade was in 1857 through the city streets of New Orleans.