___ Gras

MARDI

["Here’s a helpful hint for the clue \"___ Gras\":\n\n**\"This French word for 'Tuesday' kicks off a famous New Orleans celebration.\"**\n\nThis hint provides context about the meaning of the word and its association with a well-known event, making it easier to recall without directly giving away the answer."]

The clue "___ Gras" is a partial phrase that directly references the well-known festival "Mardi Gras," which translates to "Fat Tuesday" in French. The blank is filled by the word "MARDI," meaning "Tuesday" in French. The clue relies on the solver's familiarity with the cultural term "Mardi Gras," making the answer straightforward once the phrase is recognized. There is no complex wordplay or pun involved—just a direct reference to a widely known celebration.