The carnival time of the year, which begins on New Year's Day, ends tomorrow on Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday. On Wednesday, February 13, the penitential period of Lent begins. So revellers "pull out all the punches" on these last few days of Carnival. Party and "sin" now before you have to do penance. Well, the church is no longer as influential as it once was; however, once the party tradition starts, it's awfully hard to end the custom.
During this festive time, many nudist clubs, facilities and resorts hold special events and parties to celebrate this occasion. These final days of revelry become particularly intense as everyone tries to join in the fun before it all comes to an end on Ash Wednesday. So grab your beads and masks, strip off your clothes and prepare to get wild. Now's the time to figuratively and literally let it all hang out and let the good times roll!
I'm told by some acquaintances that part of the traditions of Mardi Gras is for men to shave their body hair. Even guys who otherwise don't shave or trim do so in honor of Fat Tuesday. Being a "natural" man myself, I'm not sure as to the reasons behind this practice and I certainly don't engage in this aspect of the observance. I admire and appreciate the hirsute male too much than to grab a razor or scissors. But, to each their own pleasure.
The best places to be in the United States for Mardi Gras are New Orleans, Louisiana and Mobile, Alabama. The festivities in these locations span multiple days and include huge parades, street fairs and endless bar-hopping. Of course, nothing comes close to competing with the celebrations that take place in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia and in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Southern Hemisphere knows how to throw a party as this is their summertime and perfectly suited for outdoor events and gatherings.
As to my own Mardi Gras plans, my boyfriend and I attended a private naked party this past Saturday night. The theme was, of course, the climax of the Carnival. Upon arrival, we were presented with the customary beads and next had to decorate a plain mask using glitter and feathers supplied our hosts. It wasn't as exciting as the action in Mobile or New Orleans but you go with what's available.
Naked hugs.
