According to Don Quijote, “Carnival originated from a Roman celebration and extended throughout Europe during the Middle Ages.” This tradition deviated from Lent, which is a ritual that some, but not all, Americans do practice. The people have parties and indulge in many foods and drinks before the Lent period. The people could dress up in costumes and such to celebrate. The means of this is to feel free before they have to give up for Lent. A local celebrity will begin the activities with a speech and then the people carry on with their events. Carnival could last a few days, depending on the city, but ends on Ash Wednesday when Lent