New York Habitat Blog

When you think of celebrating Carnaval or Mardi Gras, the cities of Rio de Janeiro and New Orleans probably come to mind. But the raucous festivities proceeding Ash Wednesday each year actually date back, in part, to a medieval French tradition. Beginning in 1274, the French would lead a fat cow through the streets of Paris as a reminder for people to use up the fats in their home, and thus not be tempted to eat meat during the season of Lent.

Pimprenelle Carnaval de Paris

Celebrate “Fat Tuesday” in Paris this year and take part in an age-old tradition. The annual Paris Carnaval procession, also known as the Promenade du Boeuf Gras (Fat Cow Parade) will take place on Sunday, February 22nd.

The parade begins at Place Gambetta and winds it way through five arrondissements, ending at the Hotel de Ville. The famous French cow, Pimprenelle, will lead the procession of local musicians, street artists, actors and clowns, all dressed for this year’s parade theme “Monsters and Monstrosities”. The free event is a perfect outing for kids, sure to be awed by the colorful costumes and festive music.

Paris accommodation 1-bedroom Vacation Rental in Canal Saint Martin (PA-3288)

New York Habitat has dozens of great vacation rentals conveniently located along the parade route and near all of the Carnaval festivities. Check out:

This spacious, lofted 1-Bedroom rental in Canal Saint Martin, Cite des Sciences - Buttes Chaumont (PA-3288). The apartment opens into a charming courtyard with old-fashioned shops and a second courtyard containing the entrance door to the building.

This colorful, first-floor 1-Bedroom vacation rental in Republique, Marais - Les Halles (PA-2952). Enjoy the funky kitchen, decorative fireplace and street views. The apartment is just steps from the bustling hub of Place de la Republique.

If you’re looking to experience a popular local tradition, the Carnaval procession will make you feel like an authentic Parisian and staying in a vacation accommodation will make you feel even more like a local. The parade wasn’t held between 1952 and 1997, but it’s been a local favorite since it’s rebirth a decade ago. Today more than 400,000 people join in the event.

Have you ever been to Paris during Carnaval? Do you know of any great spots to catch the parade action? We’d love to hear your experiences and tips. Please comment below.

1. Celebrate the Fete de Vendanges in Montmartre - Paris
2. Celebrate Bastille Day in Paris
3. Dance Your Heart Out at Paris’ Techno Parade
4. Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in New York
5. Celebrate New Year’s Eve, London Style!

This entry was posted on Tuesday, January 13th, 2009 at 3:26 pm in Paris Events. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

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