Each year most Christian groups do some form of penance during Lent. Some denude the sanctuary in a usually vain attempt to present an austere look for the worshipping public.
Spring is a time of rebirth.
And prior to undertaking his ministry, Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness praying and fasting. But it has no true biblical basis. We have some wonderful community traditions in Lent. We would be poorer without those weekly services where several churches of various heritages worship together. Prayer vigils and Bible studies have special power during Lent.