Mardi Gras generates over $1 billion in annual spending. Carnival refers to the period of feasting and fun which begins January 6th, The Feast of the Epiphany. Mardi Gras refers to Fat Tuesday, the final day of revelry before Ash Wednesday, when Lent begins. Mardi Gras changes because it's connected to Easter, falling on a Sunday March 23-April 25. Jazz Fest is in May.
