Though many don't traditionally associate Carnival Season with Easter, the monthslong celebration that includes Mardi Gras actually leads up to Ash Wednesday. It's often seen as the final burst of excitement before Lent begins,

Before Easter arrives, many Christians of different denominations across Houston will participate in around 40 days of Lent – and it all starts with Ash Wednesday. The holiday, in which some practicing receive ash on their foreheads in the shape of a cross,