Fun Mardi Gras Facts

 Here are 5 facts about Mardi Gras:

1. It's a Season, Not Just a Day: 

   The Carnival season officially starts on Twelfth Night (January 6) and lasts until Fat Tuesday, which is the day before Ash Wednesday, leading into Lent. 
2. Colors Have Meaning: 

   The official colors are purple for justice, green for faith, and gold for power, established by the Krewe of Rex in 1872 to honor a visiting Russian Grand Duke. 
3. Masks Break Social Barriers: 

   Wearing masks is required by law for float riders and was originally meant to allow people of all social classes to mingle freely, notes History.com. 
4. First Celebration in Mobile, AL: 

   While New Orleans is famous for it, the first American Mardi Gras was celebrated in Mobile, Alabama, in 1703, before parades began in New Orleans in the 1830s. 
5. "The Greatest Free Show on Earth": 

   Because parades are organized and funded by private social clubs (Krewes), New Orleans calls Mardi Gras the "Greatest Free Show on Earth," as spectators don't pay to watch the floats and throws, says Mardi Gras New Orleans. 

Groundhog Day-6 more weeks of Winter

Groundhog Day, in the United States and Canada, day (February 2) on which the emergence of the groundhog (woodchuck) from its burrow is said to foretell the weather for the following six weeks. Specifically, if the groundhog emerges from its burrow and sees its shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. If the groundhog does not see its shadow, an early spring is expected. Historical records, however, indicate that the predictions are accurate less than 40 percent of the time.

The beginning of February, which falls roughly halfway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox, has long been a significant time of the year in many cultures. Among the Celts, for example, it was the time of Imbolc, observed in anticipation of the birth of farm animals and the planting of crops, and February 2 is also the date of the Christian festival of Candlemas, also called the feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin. During the Middle Ages there arose the belief that animals such as the badger and the bear interrupted their hibernation to appear on this day. If the day was sunny and the animal saw its shadow, six more weeks of winter weather remained. If, however, the day was cloudy, it was a sign that the weather during the following weeks would be mild, leading to an early spring. German immigrants to the United States carried the legend with them, and in Pennsylvania the groundhog came to be substituted for the badger.

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Cold or Flu

As Flu season is still upon us, it is best to know what to be aware of when it comes to sickness...

Key Flu Awareness Points:

 

• Vaccination is Key:
   An annual flu shot (or nasal spray) is the most effective way to prevent infection and reduce severity
  .
High-Risk Groups: Young children, older adults (65+), pregnant women, and those with underlying conditions (heart, lung, etc.) face higher risks.
Constant Threat: Viruses change, requiring yearly vaccination for updated protection. 

Prevention & Awareness Tips:

• Get Vaccinated: Talk to your doctor about getting your annual flu shot.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands often, cover coughs/sneezes.
• Stay Home When Sick: Avoid spreading germs.
• Know the Symptoms: Fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, etc..
• Bird Flu (H5N1): Avoid contact with sick birds/animals, don't drink raw milk, cook poultry properly. 

Resources:

• CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov/flu)
• WHO: World Health Organization (who.int)
• American Lung Association: lung.org (lung.org) 
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 Indoor Play & Themed Events during the month of January

• The Monkey's Treehouse (Nashville): Offers specific January events like a Bounce & Glow Party (Jan 15), a Parents Night Out (Jan 23), and an Elsa & Olaf Visit (Jan 27), plus general drop-in play.
• Urban Air Adventure Park & The Treehouse Indoor Play: Good options for active fun, according to Nashville Guru and Yelp. 

Winter Outdoor & Holiday Fun

• Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery: Hosts Winter Break Family Days (Dec 29 - Jan 3) with crafts, games, and snowglobe making.
• Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center: Features synthetic ice skating with music and themed nights, check their schedule for January dates. 

Other Local Favorites

• Cheekwood: A great spot for seasonal beauty and family activities.
• Nashville Zoo: Always a family favorite for animal encounters.
• Lane Motor Museum: For unique vehicle exhibits. 

How to Find More Events

• Kids Out and About Nashville: A comprehensive guide to local family activities.
• Nashville Parent: Lists events specifically for families in the area.
• Nashville Guru: Offers lists of fun places for kids in Nashville. 

Budget-Friendly Fun

• Consider creating your own fun with winter crafts (snowflakes, cards) or scavenger hunts at home.