Shrove Tuesday is the English name for what is known in some other countries as Mardi Gras (French for 'Fat Tuesday') or Carnival in Spanish and Portuguese countries, and is the last day before Lent for many Christian communities. Famous celebrations include the Brazilian Carnival in Rio De Janeiro and the New Orleans Mardi Gras. It is observed in many Christian communities through participating in confession and absolution, the ritual burning of the previous year's Holy Week palms, finalizing one's Lenten sacrifice, as well as eating pancakes and other sweets. Also known as pancake day.