A series of bomb blasts across Iraq has killed at least 40 people.
The worst attack happened in the city of Diwaniyah.
On the outskirts of Karbala, where more than a million muslims are expected to celebrate Mid-Sha'ban, another car bomb exploded in a market, forcing both Karbala and Diwania under curfew.
Shia leaders say the bombings won't deter most of the pilgrims, but they will shake their faith in security forces.
Al Jazeera's Jane Arraf reports from Baghdad.
