Every year in France, Mardi Gras brings energy, colour, and delicious food just before the quieter season of Lent begins. In the French Alps, the festive spirit is alive and well, especially in Morzine, where locals and visitors celebrate with lights, parades, and plenty of mountain cheer.

What Is Mardi Gras? A Brief History

Mardi Gras — literally “Fat Tuesday” — has roots that go back to ancient times. Long before it became part of the Christian calendar, people in Roman times celebrated the coming of spring with feasting and merriment. When Christianity spread, these celebrations were integrated into the liturgical year: Mardi Gras became the last day to enjoy rich foods before the Lenten fast began. It’s part of the wider Carnival season, which kicks off after the Epiphany and continues until the day before Ash Wednesday.

In France, this festive moment has blended religious tradition with playful celebrations — from costumes and parades to indulgent eating — making it a cultural highlight each year.

The Sweet Side of Mardi Gras: Merveilles & More

One of the best things about Mardi Gras in France is the food! The tradition was always about using up rich ingredients like eggs, butter, and sugar before the start of Lent. Today, this still means tasty treats everywhere you go. Here are some classic favourites:

• Merveilles – Crispy, twisted fried pastries that are especially popular in the southwest of France. These golden delights are sometimes flavoured with orange blossom and traditionally enjoyed around Mardi Gras time.
• Bugnes – Light, knot-shaped doughnuts found in regions like Lyon.
• Oreillettes – Paper-thin, crisp treats common in the south.
• Gaufres – Warm French waffles, perfect with sugar or chocolate.

Whether eaten warm at a market stall or shared with friends, these sweets are part of the joyful flavour of Mardi Gras in France.

Mardi Gras in Morzine: Light, Parades & Fireworks

In Morzine, the Mardi Gras celebration brings a magical and communal twist on this beloved festival. Morzine fête Carnaval takes place this year on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, starting at 5:00 pm at Place de l’Office de Tourisme.

From 5 pm to 7 pm, the streets light up with the Crazy Dolls – Les Lumineuses, a troupe of luminous performers whose costumes, graceful dances, and percussive music create an enchanting carnival atmosphere that’s fun for all ages.

The festivities culminate in a spectacular fireworks display launched from Pléney at 7 pm, illuminating the night sky and bringing the celebration to a luminous close.

This event is free to attend and perfect for students, families, and visitors looking to experience Mardi Gras with a French mountain twist.

Traditional Recipe: Les Merveilles

Ingredients (about 30 merveilles)

• 250 g flour
• 2 eggs
• 50 g sugar
• 50 g melted butter
• 1 tbsp milk
• 1 tbsp rum or orange blossom water (optional)
• 1 pinch of salt
• Oil for frying
• Icing sugar for serving

Instructions

Mix dry ingredients in a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
Add wet ingredients: eggs, melted butter, milk, and rum/orange blossom water. Mix into a smooth dough.
Rest the dough. Cover and let rest 1 hour.
Roll and cut. Roll the dough thin (2–3 mm). Cut into diamond shapes and make a small slit in the center.
Fry – Heat oil to 170–180°C. Fry a few at a time for about 1 minute per side until golden.
Drain & finish – Place on paper towels, then sprinkle generously with icing sugar.

✨ Crispy outside, light inside — impossible to stop at one!

Why Mardi Gras Matters

For learners at Alpine French School, Mardi Gras isn’t just about costumes and sweets — it’s a chance to experience French culture in real time. From traditional language (like carnaval, beignets, merveilles) to community celebrations and local flavours, this festival brings learning to life in a fun, immersive way.

So whether you’re walking through Morzine’s glowing streets, sampling festive treats, or cheering at the firework finale, Mardi Gras is a celebration worth experiencing in French style!

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