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This October, fans of the iconic rock band KISS may very well have their dreams come true as Carnival Destiny sets sail on a five-day immersive charter. Called The KISS Kruise, theme cruise promoter Sixthman is taking names now for pre-sale sign up.

Brazil's health ministry plans to hand out 89 million free condoms during the Carnival celebrations in Rio De Janeiro, which begins Saturday. The number is 26 million more condoms than were given out last year.

Mardi Gras masks are in essence Carnival masks, which means their history lies in the Venetian and French masquerade balls that were in vogue in the royal courts of Europe from the 15th century onward. In America, where Mardi Gras is probably best known (under the name "Mardi Gras," that is, and not "Carnival"), masks have a complicated, but rich history.

When I hear the words 'masquerade ball' I picture mystery, intrigue, and romance. I envision women in elaborate dresses, their faces hidden by feathered masks. I see elegant men wearing the finest of threads, appearance disguised by tooled leather covering their face. There is debauchery, of course. There is always a bit of debauchery in my Masquerade Ball fantasies. What are Masquerade Balls like in real life and where can you find yourself an opportunity to attend one?

Ash Wednesday 2011 will mark the beginning of the season of Lent in the Catholic Church. The date of the observance differs each year; in 2011, Ash Wednesday falls on March 9. Lent is a season of repentance, prayer and fasting in the Catholic faith, and certain rituals take place for followers of the religion.