Already on her must-attend list – even if it is way off in the future – is Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro and Carnevale in Venice. She's not picky. Anywhere the traditional pre-Lenten celebration is underway, Girlawhirl's up for the party.

Girlawhirl's already familiar with the vibrant images of the Carnevale celebrations in Venice – with their masquerade balls – and Rio's armies of samba dancers shimmying and sparkling down the parade route. But she didn't realize so many countries worldwide also feature their own party rooted in Christian traditions similar to those celebrated at Mardi Gras. The partying is supposed to signify the last day to let your hair down before Ash Wednesday and 40 days of fasting and reflection before Easter Sunday. And tonight isn't the only celebration. In fact, it's the final celebration in what can amount to days and even weeks of pre Lent partying.

 So while this year has to remain her own special kind of Mardi Gras, Girlawhirl thinks tonight may turn into a meeting of “where are we celebrating next year?” Girlawhirl's all ready to cast her vote for Rio. But during the day today she's going to try and sneak some live images of the parades – some starting as early as 8 a.m. – into her workday from one of the many webcams covering the French Quarter.

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Feb 28, 2006:

Celebrate!. read full entry